A break in the gloom

Everyday, things go from bad to worse in Gaza. The region’s total isolation has affected all aspects of life for its 1.5 million residents. And yet, there are a lot of stories that people never hear – like that of the Abu Sabet family.

The Abu Sabets live in a remote village called Wadi Salqa, an agricultural area famous for palm trees and home to 6,000 people. Like their fellow villagers, this family of 12 works day and night to secure food and basic needs for all of its members. They also have a special need. Two of the children in their family have been physically handicapped since birth.

When they were growing up, Adham, aged 16, and Nada, aged 18, tried to go to school, but their handicaps were too daunting. In fact, they were not able to leave their house for many years because they couldn't afford wheelchairs or any other means to move themselves around. Happily, ANERA has been able to reach these children. Read more.

Bringing water to people

How ANERA’s Emergency Water and Sanitation Project changes lives

Zohair, his wife and children constantly struggle against poverty. One of his biggest problems is ready access to clean, affordable water. Until now, he has had no direct access to running water. Purchasing water in small quantities is costlier than in larger amounts, and all Zohair has is a small plastic container. Also, he must walk long distances to a tanker and then wait in line for hours.

EWAS arranged for the excavation of a water cistern for his family. “Life is easier now,” Zohair explains. “Thanks to ANERA, we have a regular supply of water, which saves time and money. We don’t have to worry anymore.”

Under the EWAS project, ANERA excavated 30 cisterns in Majdal Bani Fadil alone. Construction is typically performed by local contractors, thus positively impacting the local economy.

Read our recently released Emergency Water and Sanitation brochure.