In Gaza, Medical Aid for Palestinians supports the Ard el Insan malnutrition clinic, on a project which provides care and treatment for malnourished children under the age of three who are living in extreme poverty and insecurity.
Appalling facts and figures, such as almost of 10 per cent of under-fives suffering from stunting (chronic malnutrition) and an increase in wasting (acute malnutrition) from 1.4 per cent in 2000 to 3.8 per cent in 2014, show how urgent such support is to the health of Gaza’s beleaguered children. Over the course of the last year, this project, generously funded by our supporters, has sought to assess the nutritional health status of more than 1,000 children 6-36 months, and to provide treatment to 300 children identified as suffering from wasting, growth faltering and anaemia. It has also aimed to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of 500 coeliac children and adult cases.
On a recent visit to the Ard El Insan clinic in Khan Younis, MAP’s Programme Officer in Gaza, Huda Anan, was thrilled to receive on behalf of MAP an elegant handmade wooden souvenir from mothers whose children have benefitted from the project. In an accompanying letter to MAP, one mother wrote:
“I witnessed the success of my child’s treatment. The clinic cared for him for three months during which he received nutritional meals. My child became healthier and he has a good appetite, and all of my family members have noticed that he gained weight. This is one of the indicators of success. For that I am very thankful for you and what you are providing for our children.” (Translated from Arabic)
The success of this project means we will be continuing to support it for the foreseeable future. You can help us continue this vital work by donating to MAP here.