MoSD: Key Steps to Support Poor Families in Gaza and Strengthen Coordination with NGOs
Ramallah – January 1, 2024 – The Ministry of Social Development held an online meeting chaired by Her Excellency, Minister of Social Development Dr. Samah Hamad, to discuss the challenges related to the distribution of aid and food parcels in the Gaza Strip, as well as to address issues concerning orphans, women, and children.
During the meeting, Dr. Hamad reviewed the ministry’s efforts to distribute food parcels to needy families in Gaza during the current year. She emphasized that efforts will continue to secure additional support in response to the rising poverty rates and growing needs. Dr. Hamad also highlighted that the ministry provided food assistance to 350,000 families in Gaza last year and reiterated the ministry's commitment to expanding the scope of services provided to these families.
Concerning orphan support, Dr. Hamad clarified that monthly support was provided to orphans in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The ministry is committed to expanding this service to include a larger number of orphans in the near future. Regarding women's empowerment, she noted that many women benefited from economic and social support programs designed to improve their living standards and provide sustainable job opportunities.
Dr. Hamad also emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination between the ministry and civil society organizations to provide effective humanitarian assistance in Gaza. She pointed out that a significant portion of services offered during the recent escalation was delivered through these organizations. She stressed the need for sectoral committees that include both government and civil society representatives to ensure the dignity of beneficiaries and prioritize those most in need, such as widows, orphans, and people with disabilities.
Dr. Hamad reviewed new mechanisms to improve support delivery to the Gaza Strip. She announced the distribution of cash assistance since the beginning of the recent escalation and emphasized the need to develop an electronic payment system in cooperation with the Palestinian Monetary Authority to protect citizens from exploitation. She also highlighted the importance of establishing a unified registry for beneficiaries in collaboration with UNICEF, and called for the formation of specialized field teams for each sector, including representatives from organizations working in women's, children’s, and disability sectors.
In a new step, Dr. Hamad announced the launch of the "Life-Saving" program, which aims to provide monthly financial support to affected families. She stressed the need to activate the commercial supply chain to reduce prices and improve Gaza’s economic situation, while enhancing coordination between ministries and institutions to ensure the sustainability of work and integrate efforts amid current challenges.
She further explained that the ministry is working on establishing an emergency registry system for families in collaboration with international organizations, ensuring that interventions are improved and that aid reaches those who need it most efficiently.
The meeting focused on the challenges the Ministry of Social Development faces in Gaza, particularly regarding aid distribution and coordination with various institutions. Participants discussed the importance of enhancing communication and accountability, the need for more transparency in aid distribution, and the need to improve coordination between the concerned parties. They also emphasized the importance of providing accurate data to address challenges in delivering aid in Gaza.
In conclusion, Dr. Hamad reaffirmed the importance of continuing to face challenges with a spirit of cooperation and partnership, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to achieving social justice and ensuring a dignified life for all target groups.
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