Give a gift to support AngliCORD's overseas relief and development work.The challenge
For the people of Gaza, the ongoing Israeli blockade is a disaster. Severe restrictions on the flow of goods and services means even basic food items, when they are available in Gaza markets, are now unaffordable to most families. 
According to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) around 325,000 people are believed to be living in abject poverty, unable to meet their daily food needs. Across Gaza, parents are struggling to feed their children.
Health conditions for Gaza’s 1.5 million inhabitants are deteriorating rapidly due to poor water quality and failing sanitation systems along with the damage to infrastructure, homes and businesses inflicted during Israel’s attacks in December 2008 and January 2009. Shortages of electricity and consumables limit the effectiveness of treatment and care. All health facilities are experiencing shortages of medication, drugs, medical supplies, fuel and spare parts. The permit delays at border crossings are also denying Gaza patients access to specialised care that is only available outside Gaza. Staff at Al Ahli Arab Hospital report dozens of patient deaths either in Gaza hospitals or at the Erez checkpoint because of access restrictions.
Our united response
Anglicord support enables capacity building within Al Ahli Arab Hospital to respond to the health and humanitarian needs of Gaza communities. Hospital services include general surgical and medical care, out and in patient care as well as diagnostic, rehabilitation services, prevention and skills development.
The hospital enjoys the trust of the local mainly Muslim communities and serves all in need regardless of gender, race, faith or social status. Currently the hospital provides targeted care and support to families living in Beit Hanoun, El Zaitoon, Jabalia, El Atatra, Elshoka, Rafah, Beit Lahia and Khan Younis - areas directly affected by Israeli military attacks.
Program progress
Under extremely trying circumstances, the hospital continually tailors its programs to areas of most need. The mobile medical clinic serves some of Gaza’s poorest neighbourhoods. The programs for malnourished children, the elderly, and chronically ill women, are dramatically improving the quality of life for many.
A mental health outreach program provides post-traumatic and ongoing stress care for families. This program was designed specifica
lly for the Gaza context, with training in stress reduction techniques provided to mothers who are then encouraged to share these techniques with their families.
Anglicord also supports a regular residency at Al Ahli Arab Hospital by Australian surgeon Geoff Bird and his wife Beris, a palliative care specialist, who provides training for nurses that would otherwise not be available.
At a glance
| Project partner: | Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, Al Ahli Arab Hospital |
| Location: |
Gaza Strip |
| Target populations: | 3000 patients per month |
| Partnership began: | 1988 |
| Start date (current phase): | Ongoing |
| Anglicord target (2010/11): | $90,000 |
Donate today
Make a donation to support Anglicord's partner, the Anglican Al Ahli Arab Hospital in the Gaza Strip.