Gaza: DSPR is working in Rafah
Our partner the Department of Service to Palestinian Refugees is doing all it can to help the people in Gaza and on the West Bank. Over a million people are sheltering in Rafah where its Primary Health Clinic is one of four functioning medical centres. If the threatened large-scale offensive begins, DSPR Gaza warns there will be more civilian deaths and the relief system could collapse. Resources are extremely limited but it has attended to 8,654 children and adults plus another 2,000 people with vital medical (including dental) care. Staff have reached more than 4,546 people with psychosocial care. Mothers and children are its primary focus. Read more in the 100-Day Report.
“The destruction of our premises, the limitations of our resources, the poor connection and fragmentation have never prevented DSPR Gaza from keeping a light in the middle of darkness and trying to help people live with dignity,” says DSPR Gaza.
Thank you for standing with the people of Gaza in this time of crisis. CWS has sent an initial $60,000 grant for Gaza.
Please give what you can to the people of Gaza.
Share Food Today
Thank you to everyone who has supported the 2023 Christmas Appeal. When so many people are finding life more difficult, your gift of love to neighbours from Sri Lanka to Tonga and South Sudan is life-giving. Donations to the Christmas Appeal support the work our partners do to improve people’s lives and livelihoods. Church Treasurers are reminded to send in any donations churches are holding.
If you have not yet made your Christmas gift, please do so today. CWS will send you a receipt so you can claim a tax credit with the IRD after March 31.
Sri Lanka: Human Elephant Conflict increases
In Sri Lanka, elephant and human deaths have been rising as the competition for natural resources intensifies. With drier conditions and increased water shortages associated with climate change, steps need to be taken now to ensure food for elephants and humans. Small-scale farmers, environmentalists and other concerned people are campaigning for a better future. Read more.
World Day of Prayer
You are invited to join the annual World Day of Prayer on Friday, March 1. Women’s groups are organising community services throughout the country to begin this global event. The materials which include resources for children and Bible study have been prepared by Palestinian Christian women. They work with the theme, “I beg you… bear with one another in love” based on Ephesians 4:1-7 and use the symbol of an olive tree. The women encourage you to join them in informed prayer and prayerful action. For more information, contact Zella.
Türkiye Syria: One Year On
Thank you for supporting last year’s Türkiye Syria Earthquake Appeal. February 6 marked the first anniversary of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake. CWS has sent over $140,000 to help people affected in Türkiye and Syria. The situation remains challenging in both countries. Read the report.
Ukraine: Humanitarian Workers Killed
CWS and ACT Alliance were shocked to learn two colleagues were killed in southeast Ukraine last week. We are deeply concerned about the many humanitarian workers who have been attacked and killed already this year.
Give Gifts of Love
CWS has gifts you will want to give to friends and family for birthdays or other special occasions. You can order e-cards or printed cards from our catalogue at any time. By choosing Gifted, you will be choosing a meaningful gift that will also help someone in need.
Photo credits: DSPR, MECC, MONLAR, WCC/Ivan Kupcis and World Day of Prayer.