Palestinian children living in occupied East Jerusalem are growing up in extremely difficult conditions. In Shu’fat refugee camp, poverty and a lack of basic services persist even though it is classified as part of East Jerusalem.
There are an estimated 24,000 residents in the camp, the majority children, on approximately 78 square miles, completely enclosed and cut off from Jerusalem by the Wall. Socio-economic problems are prevalent within the Camp and its surrounding areas, with 76% of the residents of East Jerusalem and 83.4% of the children living below the poverty line, according to the poverty report of the National Insurance Institute (2017).
The camp suffers from high unemployment and a prevalence of drug abuse among the youth. Children feel insecure and most live in poverty with little public space to play.
In partnership with the Women Center, KinderUSA is funding daily meals for 120 children along with sessions on healthy eating. Volunteers prepare the meals and provide coaching in healthier eating by avoiding the chips and candy prevalent in their diets.
One of the beneficiaries, Murad, comes from a household with 2 brothers and 3 sisters. His father is an invalid and unable to work so the family relies on charities for all their needs. Murad’s mother is grateful her son can have the benefit of the meal from KinderUSA and the Women Centre knowing it contributes to his well-being and reduces her concern about how he will receive a good meal that day.
For as little as $2 a day per child, your support will create a ripple effect of positive change enabling an environment that promotes healthier eating while building resilience!
Please make your donation today!
