Violence breaks as Ramadan begins
A barrage of deadly rockets filled the peaceful sky of Gaza wreaking havoc on the city and its residents. In the distance, a bright, new crescent emerged declaring the arrival of this Blessed month, nurturing people’s faith and renewing their hope. While I was writing to you last night, I received this message from Abdallah, UPA’s programs manager in Gaza:
“Keep us in your prayers. We are living hard days. Air strikes everywhere, and there is no safe place here. Inshallah, (God willing) this will pass soon.”
In two weeks I will be making my annual trip to Palestine to visit with local partners, witness our programs in action and meet with our staff. These programs and initiatives would not be possible without your support. Last year, during the Great March of Return, UPA purchased vital medicines from the local market and renovated storage space to serve as extra recovery rooms at a local hospital in Gaza. Today, with much skepticism, a fragile ceasefire looms in the distance after many Palestinians were killed and many more were injured in last weekend’s attacks. As the human tragedy goes on, the Holy month of Ramadan competes with a powerful war machine to emphasize piety and tranquility in a troubled land.
Please continue to support our Palestinian brothers and sisters ahead of the commemoration of An-Nakba (the catastrophe) on May 15th. The Nakba is the term Palestinians use to describe their forced displacement preceding and immediately following the creation of Israel in 1948.
Donate now to make sure our response to the growing needs on the ground is quick and effective.
As I write to you, I am looking forward to seeing the young men and women in Gaza whose tireless efforts continue despite the ongoing violence. With the beginning of this month of sacrifice and devotion, we ask you to renew your commitment to life and hope in Gaza by making a gift to UPA.
Please give generously; your gift can be designated as Sadaka or Zakat.
With gratitude,
Saleem F. Zaru
Executive Director
