World Hunger Day: A Spotlight on Palestine

Every year, on the 28th of May, the world comes together to observe World Hunger Day. This day is a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle against hunger that affects millions of people worldwide. It serves as a call to action to raise awareness and encourage sustainable solutions to eradicate hunger and poverty. As an organisation that strives to reach out to people across regions worldwide, this year, Penny Appeal has focussed a spotlight on a region where hunger is unbelievably exacerbated by ongoing bombardment and economic instability: Palestine. 

A country devastated by unending attacks, death, and destruction, the situation in Palestine is particularly acute due to the compounded effects of the ongoing war on Gaza. However, through the dedicated efforts and support of individuals worldwide, there is hope. By raising awareness, supporting relief efforts, and advocating for sustainable solutions, we will tackle hunger both in Palestine and beyond! 

The Plight of Hunger in Palestine

Palestine, encompassing the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, has been mired in bombardment and attacks for decades. This ongoing strife has not only resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement but has also severely compromised food security. According to the United Nations, more than 1.6 million Palestinians are food insecure, a situation that includes both inadequate food supply and insufficient nutritional quality.  

Contributing Factors to Hunger in Palestine

Several key factors contribute to the high levels of hunger in Palestine: 

Bombardment and Blockades: The persistent war on Gaza has led to the destruction of homes, farms, and essential infrastructure. The blockade has severely restricted the movement of goods and people, crippling the local economy and limiting access to vital supplies, including food.  

Economic Instability: The economic situation in Palestine is dire due to the lack of economic opportunities, and the ongoing destruction of the country, has meant families are unable to afford or access sufficient food supplies. 

Agricultural Challenges: Agriculture has been a primary source of livelihood for many Palestinians, but it faces huge threats. With lands completely destroyed or stolen, restricted access to water, and limited movement due to checkpoints and barriers, agricultural productivity has been hindered. Farmers often struggle to get their produce to market, reducing their income and the availability of local food, and with the current deadly situation, there is absolutely no stability for anyone. 

Humanitarian Access: Humanitarian aid is crucial in Palestine, but this has been restricted and, in many places, halted completely. This hampers the efforts of aid organisations to provide lifesaving food assistance and other essential aid. 

Penny Appeal's is on a mission to feed as many people in need across Palestine as possible! 

Penny Appeal has been at the forefront of addressing hunger and poverty in Palestine. Our efforts are multifaceted, aiming to provide immediate relief while also supporting long-term, sustainable solutions.  
 

Feed Our World & Emergency Response

Our Feed Our World programme focuses on providing nutritious meals to the most vulnerable populations. During the current catastrophe in Palestine, Penny Appeal has been working around the clock distributing food parcels containing essential items such as rice, lentils, flour, and oil, as well as hot nutritious food to those displaced and left with nothing. 

In the face of ongoing conflict and natural disasters, our Emergency Response appeal is crucial. Penny Appeal provides immediate food, clean water, medical supplies, and other essential items to those affected by emergencies. In Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is especially dire, these emergency interventions are truly lifesaving.  
 

Thirst Relief

Access to clean water is a significant challenge in Palestine. Our Thirst Relief appeal works to provide immediate water supply through water tankers, as well as sustainable water solutions, such as installing water tanks and purifying existing water sources.  

What You Can Do

As individuals, we can all contribute to the fight against hunger in Palestine: 

Raise Awareness: Sharing information about the situation in Palestine can help draw global attention to the issue and garner support for humanitarian efforts. 

Support Charities: Donating to organisations like Penny Appeal, which provide food and other assistance to Palestinians, can make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected. 

Advocate for Change: Engaging with policymakers and advocating for actions to fight hunger.  

Act NOW! 

On this World Hunger Day, let us take concrete steps to support the people of Palestine – they need us now more than ever!  

The current conditions in Palestine are truly heartbreaking, the systematic and severe deprivation of basic human rights that have left millions of Palestinians facing extreme hunger and poverty. By donating to Penny Appeal, you can support our partners on the ground who are delivering lifesaving food, water, and medical supplies right now! 

Click the link below to donate now: 

https://pennyappeal.org/appeal/palestine-emergency

O Allah (SWT), Bestower of mercy, bestow Your mercy on the people of Palestine – Ameen!