Dear Friends and Supporters,

We are writing to share a critical and time-sensitive update regarding our efforts to deliver lifesaving aid to families affected by the ongoing crises in Gaza and Lebanon.

Rapidly Escalating Costs & Delays

Shipping conditions have deteriorated significantly across both response areas:

• Container costs have increased sharply—from $2,500 to $4,000, then $7,000, and now approximately $10,000 for a 40 ft container
• 20 ft containers are no longer accepted, reducing flexibility in how we move goods
• In Lebanon, port congestion and administrative delays are causing extended clearance times and rising storage fees

For aid destined for Gaza, additional uncertainties remain:

• Entry of supplies through Jordan is subject to approvals, resulting in unpredictable delays and limited access

These challenges are significantly increasing costs and slowing delivery at a time when speed is essential. Under current conditions, this approach is no longer sustainable.

Final Shipment Under Current Model

We are preparing one final consolidated shipment for Gaza using supplies from our existing warehouse inventory. To maximize impact, we are working urgently to complete procurement of remaining critical items within the next 30 days:

• Wheelchairs (adult and pediatric) — 100 units, new only
• Walkers and crutches (source from Goodwill or Salvation Army for cost savings)
• Water purification tablets with Arabic usage instructions
• 10 ft tarps for tent coverage (sun and rain protection)
• Diapers (adult and baby) and women’s sanitary pads
• School supplies (non-paper items)
• Backpacks
• Antibiotics
• Bleed control kits
• Survival kits
• Emergency vitamin C packets
• Medical supplies: dressings, gauze, gloves, disinfectant
• Collapsible 5-gallon water carriers
• Fever-reducing medication and rehydration solutions
• Women’s and men’s vitamins

Immediate Strategic Shift

We will transition to sourcing supplies within the region and directly in-country.

This shift will:

• Enable faster, more reliable delivery
• Eliminate excessive shipping and port costs
• Reduce delays and uncertainty in access
• Ensure more of every dollar directly supports families in need

Your Support Is Critical Now

Your partnership at this moment will allow us to complete this final shipment while rapidly transitioning to local procurement—without disrupting aid delivery.

Impact of Your Gift:

• $50 provides essential hygiene supplies for a family
• $100 delivers emergency food support for several days
• $250 equips a household with critical relief items
• $1,000+ enables large-scale, rapid in-country distribution

Matching Gift Opportunity – Double Your Impact

For a limited time, every dollar you give will be matched, doubling the aid we can deliver to families in urgent need:

• Your $100 becomes $200 in lifesaving support
• Your $250 becomes $500 in critical relief

Every dollar you give today goes twice as far—helping us reach more families, faster, when they need it most. Please act now.

We are deeply grateful for your continued support and commitment during this pivotal moment.

With gratitude,

Rita Zawaideh