Gaza–Israel Conflict: Top-Rated Charities Providing Aid

On Saturday, October 7th, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel by launching thousands of rockets followed shortly after by militants crossing into Israel by sea, air, and land. Hamas infiltrated multiple Israeli towns capturing both civilians and military personnel. Israel responded with rocket strikes of their own targeting the blockaded Gaza Strip. Dozens of buildings have been destroyed because of the rocket strikes from both Hamas and Israel. It is estimated as of October 10th, 2023, that 1000-2000 have been killed and 3000-7000 wounded from the conflict thus far. Additionally, an estimated 123,000 have been displaced due to the destruction of apartments, homes, and refugee camps. The people of Israel - Palestine need immediate aid and relief.

The charities listed below are Top-Rated by CharityWatch for spending at least 75% of their cash budgets on programs; for maintaining fundraising efficiency of $25 or less to raise each $100 in cash donations; and for meeting CharityWatch’s governance & transparency benchmarks.

Doctors Without Borders/MSF is donating medical supplies to hospitals and health facilities in Gaza to respond to medical needs. MSF does not run medical programs in Israel, which has strong emergency and health services. MSF has been running medical programs in Gaza for more than 20 years, supporting a health care system that urgently lacks both medical personnel and supplies. Their teams work in three hospitals and several outpatient clinics, offering comprehensive care for people suffering from burns and trauma. Since 2018, MSF has been running a reconstructive surgery program in northern Gaza. They also operate several medical programs in the West Bank.

Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in Palestine mobilizing immediate emergency relief.  Anera has already delivered 12,000 bags of IV solutions to Gaza’s largest hospital. In the coming days they will distribute food parcels, water, and hygiene kits to displaced families.

Muslim Aid USA is actively responding to this humanitarian crisis, working alongside their partners on the ground. They are delivering essential medical aid and equipment to the main hospitals in Gaza. They are also providing food packages and vital non-food items such as hygiene kits and other necessities to those who are in need.

The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee has activated their emergency response team and protocols across Israel. In the south of the country, they have widespread, existing operations and programs providing support to those directly impacted by the conflict, including elderly, people with disabilities, children and families at risk.

Hadassah hospitals in Israel and its medical teams are currently providing crisis medicine and trauma-care to those impacted by the on-going conflict.

Zakat Foundation of America has been on the ground in this volatile area for over 20 years. Alongside local partners they work to provide both long-term (education, health and food sustainability) and short-term aid. Zakat has stated that it is supplying emergency relief, including: medical supplies, hygiene kits, food, warm blankets and clothing. 

Direct Relief has committed funds to the Ashkelon Foundation, a nonprofit located in southern Israel. The foundation supports the Barzilai Medical Center which received approximately 300 patients the first day of the attack. Direct Relief is also working with other health-focused nonprofits in Israel to assess the need for additional aid. 

Episcopal Relief & Development is working with Al Ahli Hospital, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, to provide emergency support for those affected in Gaza. Al Ahli Hospital, with the support of Episcopal Relief & Development, is actively recruiting emergency staff and gathering essential supplies including medicines, ICU equipment, fuel and food. 

HIAS has been operating in Israel since 1950. Within 24 hours of the initial conflict, HIAS activated its Emergency Response protocols to provide life-saving support to those displaced. Their core emergency capabilities include hygiene supplies, blankets, dignity kits, mental health and psychological support, and child protection. 

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