The Federal Government’s pledge of $5 million in urgent humanitarian assistance to Gaza has been welcomed today by World Vision Australia as the ongoing conflict in Israel, Gaza the West Bank has forced more than 200,000 people from their homes to UN schools and shelters.
World Vision Australia chief executive Tim Costello welcomed the funding and said that it would assist the humanitarian organisation in providing urgently needed supplies and support of children and their families over the coming months.
“Almost 200,000 children are in need of psychosocial support as a result of thousands of families experiencing death, injury and destruction of homes in the past few weeks alone,” Mr Costello said.
The Australian Government funding for humanitarian assistance will be delivered by World Vision Australia, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency and APHEDA.
“With the announcement of government funding today World Vision will provide thousands of people with food, hygiene kits, medical supplies and psychosocial support including safe spaces for children to play.”
Prior to the escalation in conflict, World Vision had already trained more than 8000 people in psychological first aid to provide immediate care and support for mental and emotional wellbeing. This assistance along with the provision of medical supplies to a hospital and provision of food is already underway.
“After initial needs are met, World Vision will assist in the recovery of livelihoods so that families are able to earn an income and sustain themselves,” Mr Costello said.
The aid organisation has been working in the affected region since 1975 and has been providing agriculture and livelihoods assistance for the poor and most vulnerable families, as well as psychosocial support for children.
To donate to World Vision Australia’s Emergency Preparedness Fund call 13 32 40 or visitwww.worldvision.com.au/emergencies
For interviews with Tim Costello or World Vision staff on the ground, please contact: Gabrielle Brophy on 0407 575 112 or gabrielle.brophy@worldvision.com.au