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On Oct. 11, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) issued a statement requesting continued support of their aid efforts in Gaza and the West Bank.

“Thank you to all of our supporters who have donated so far to this urgent appeal,” the statement read. “The need is huge, so we are asking once more that those who have not yet made a gift please consider doing so.”

IOCC conveyed the urgent need for food, medicine, and shelter in Gaza. “Children face malnutrition, parents go hungry to feed their little ones, and the most vulnerable—including the elderly and the sick—struggle to survive,” the statement read.

The statement additionally shared that many families in the West Bank “have also endured hardship, displacement, and economic collapse.”

“Throughout the crisis, IOCC has provided emergency food, water, medicine, shelter supplies, and psychosocial care, reaching over 33,600 people,” IOCC’s statement read. 

IOCC shared that their aid work includes the following efforts:

  • Hot daily meals to displaced families.
  • Critical supplies for infants and children, including baby formula and diapers.
  • Vital medicine to displaced people with chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
  • Emergency psychosocial counseling, especially to children, helping families cope with trauma and instability.
  • Grants and business training for youth in the West Bank.

“Your support will equip IOCC to continue and grow this life-saving aid,” the statement read. 

> Previously: Abp. Elpidophoros calls for aid, enduring peace in Middle East

In an Oct. 17 encyclical, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America also called for increased aid efforts. 

“In my new capacity as Chair of the Governing Board of the National Council of Churches,” he wrote, “I have also called upon all humanitarian agencies within our member communions—including the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC)—to renew and coordinate their efforts to bring relief and healing to Gaza.”

His Eminence reminded faithful that “as Orthodox Christians, we are called to be ministers of reconciliation and instruments of divine mercy.”

“We need your help to continue and expand our support for the people of the Holy Land,” IOCC’s statement read.

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