Anadolu Agency reported Nov. 8 that the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine appealed for winter aid to Gaza, citing nearly 950,000 displaced people in areas vulnerable to flooding.
The committee's appeal, dated Nov. 7, followed rainwater entering Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church, a historic site in Gaza City. It estimated that more than 400,000 people face especially high flood risk. Many of the roughly 270,000 tents sheltering displaced families have also been damaged by rain and harsh weather, it said.
The requested relief includes food, medicine and clean water, along with tents, blankets and warm clothing. The committee also called for heating equipment that can be used safely. It said children and infants, older adults and people who are ill should receive priority.
The appeal seeks help restoring churches and other sites of religious or historic importance, with Saint Porphyrius among its priorities. Anadolu's report described displaced families as facing unsafe shelter and Gaza's Christian communities as affected by damage to religious sites.
The committee urged churches to work with humanitarian organizations operating in Palestine and to press governments and international bodies to facilitate the entry of aid, medical supplies, fuel and other essentials into Gaza. Anadolu also reported that limits Israel placed on humanitarian deliveries, shelter goods and rebuilding materials have impeded relief efforts.
EconoTimes previously reported that floodwater affected 70,000 tents in Gaza. The committee's latest appeal calls on churches to support winter relief and repair work.
