Heavy rains and strong winds swept across Gaza, flooding displacement camps and the fragile tents that tens of thousands of families rely on for shelter.
After more than two years of living in camps, many experienced their tents sag under the weight of water or collapse entirely, making already harsh winter conditions even harder to bear. In these crowded camps, tents are the only protection families have, and now, just as winter begins, even that fragile shelter has been compromised.
In these conditions, keeping families safe, warm and sheltered becomes even more urgent. Our All Hands & Hearts team has remained committed to meeting these needs, continuing large-scale distributions that strengthen shelters, support families through the cold, and ensure families are nourished during an incredibly difficult season.
Since the beginning of our response, we have now distributed nearly 40,000 tarps, helping tens of thousands of families reinforce their shelters against the elements.
Below is a closer look at last week’s distributions and why each intervention is so critical.
Reinforcing Shelters With Tarps
When tents collapse or weaken in the rain, families lose the only barrier between them and winter storms. Tarps help reinforce fragile structures, keep water out, and give families a stronger, more weather-resistant layer of protection.
Last week we distributed:
- 2,500 tarps in Gaza City
Each tarp supports a family of five, reaching approximately 12,500 people. - 2,500 tarps in Al Shati, Al Nasr, Tel Al Hawa, and Al Mawasi
- 5,000 tarps to Khan Younis camps
These tarps help stabilize weakened tents, shield families from rain and wind, and create safer, more insulated spaces for sleeping, eating and caring for children.
Providing Fresh Produce Through Family Food Kits
After over 2 years of displacement, families in Gaza face limited access to fresh food. Nutritious produce helps prevent malnutrition, supports children’s growth, and provides essential vitamins that are especially needed during winter.
Last week, we distributed:
- 5,810 family produce kits (each weighing 7 kg, with tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and onions)
Distributed in Deir El Balah, Khan Younis, and Gaza City
Benefiting an estimated 29,050 people (families of five).
These kits provide healthy ingredients for meals, supplementing restricted food supplies and helping families maintain strength and stability during the harsh winter months.
Child Nutrition
Supplemental nutrition packets (known as RUSF) are critical in helping children recover from malnutrition. Infant formula is also in great need for mothers of young children. For infants and toddlers, some of the most vulnerable in displacement settings, formula can be life-saving.
Last week, we provided:
- 204,000 packets of PlumpySup RUSF to hospitals and clinics
- Over 950 units of baby formula
Distributed to families in Khan Younis and the Fish Farms area.
Supporting over 950 children.
This support helps ensure that infants and toddlers receive safe, adequate nutrition even when their families have lost access to stable food sources and secure shelter.
Make a Difference
Each delivery helps to bring a sense of safety, comfort and hope to families returning after the ceasefire to damaged homes or makeshift tents, facing empty markets and soaring food prices.
Thank you for standing with Gaza in their greatest time of need.
