9 in 10
People lack an adequate diet
Children are malnourished
In Gaza unemployment exceeds 50% and an estimated 64% of the population lives in poverty.
As a result, 1.3 million people are food insecure, including two thirds of all children. In fact, recent findings indicate that only 14% of Gazaian children under the age of 5 have a minimum acceptable diet.
Child malnutrition has consequences for children’s physical and mental development. These can include an inability to concentrate in school and a weakened immune system, which can result in illness.
9 in 10
Housholds lack access to safe water
Lack of safe drinking water
Water resources in Gaza are very limited, with use being prioritized for vital necessities such as eating and drinking.
Only 10% of households in Gaza have direct access to safe drinking water, and only 4% of the water from the area’s water source is suitable for human consumption.
Poor water quality is the source of many sicknesses that affect babies and children. It is also the leading cause of diarrhoea, which is the world’s second biggest cause of death among children under five.
Your support makes a difference for children in Rafah
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
2,100
Emergency support services
Were delivered
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Children admiring their friends’ drawings. In the afternoons and during weekends children spend time together, playing, learning or drawing (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Palestine).
How your support helps in Rafah
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Providing care in emergencies
In times of conflict, natural disasters and mass displacement, we respond to the urgent needs of children and families. We provide immediate support, shelter and sanitation facilities to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. SOS Children’s Villages also focuses on preventing the separation of families, and ensures that children, young people and families receive psychological and health care support.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Some children live in different parts of Rafah, alongside local families. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.