Food as Medicine for Palestine's PKU Kids

Thanks for your continued support. On June 30, our team successfully completed the 10th distribution of specialized PKU food parcels for families across Gaza. 193 families received food parcels: 52 families in Gaza, 35 in Deir Al-Balah, and 106 in Khan Younis.

This distribution was filled with heartfelt moments. Families shared how grateful they are that Rebuilding Alliance continues to stand beside them despite the ongoing challenges. Many told our photographers they eagerly wait for the phone call letting them know their parcel is ready, and that these regular distributions give them hope and reassurance. They asked us to extend their sincere thanks to every donor and supporter who has made this possible, expressing how much it means that they have not been forgotten.

The impact of this assistance extends far beyond the food itself. Parents repeatedly shared how these parcels have become a vital source of relief, helping them provide suitable meals for their children while easing some of the overwhelming financial burden they face. 

• Ten-year-old  Farah is one of the beneficiaries. Farah’s mother expressed sincere gratitude for the food parcel she received: “It helps us a lot in managing her diet, even if it’s not enough.” Her mother shared that the family struggles to provide her with safe nutrition, including medical food. While medical food is available in the West Bank, access is extremely difficult. Delivery alone costs around 220 shekels, in addition to the price of the medical food itself, and the closure of the crossing has made delivery even more complicated. 

• Bashir’s mother expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support: “We are thankful for the vegetable parcel. It makes a real difference.” The fresh vegetables allow Bashir’s family to prepare meals that fit his strict low-protein diet. His mother shared that Bashir’s condition becomes more stable with this diet—a blessing she does not take for granted.

• Tasneem is 5 years old, and her little sister, Touline, is 3. Speaking about the parcel, their father shared: “It truly helps. Having healthy vegetables that are suitable for my daughters’ diet makes a real difference, even if only for a short time.” He hopes for continued support so his daughters can access the food they need and grow up with the care, dignity, and inclusion every child deserves. He also shared that Tasneem was refused admission to kindergarten because of her condition, which has left the family heartbroken. 

• Nine-year-old Islam also received a parcel. Her mother said, “We truly appreciate the vegetable parcel. It helps us a lot during these difficult times.” The specialised vegetables included have allowed them to maintain the strict diet that Islam requires. 

• Ali is 13 years old, and his younger sister, Alia, is just 2. Their mother received a parcel from our team and expressed deep gratitude to the donors who contributed to it, explaining how important it is for her children’s health: “The vegetables are suitable for my children.” She shared that Alia is still unable to speak and often experiences episodes of irritability. 

Although we did not have sufficient funds, we proceeded with this delivery because PKU patients must have continuous access to a low-protein diet. Their health depends on these specialized foods. Our team purchased the food parcels on credit, and we now need your help to cover the cost so we can continue providing this lifesaving support. 

Good News! On July 15, for 24 hours only, GlobalGiving is matching all donations of $100 up to $1500 from its $150,000 Bonus Day incentive fund. This is a great opportunity to get your donation matched. The more you give, the higher the share of incentive funds our project gets.

Please consider making a donation on Wednesday, July 15, starting at 10 am ET! 

With your help, we can continue providing safe, healthy food parcels to all 193 PKU patients in Gaza, ensuring they receive the nutrition and care they need.

We are honored to introduce Serag, the spokesperson for PKU patients in Gaza. Despite facing displacement, loss of family income, and—most critically—lack of access to safe nutrition and medical care, Serag remains determined to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. We’ve launched Serag’s Journey with PKU in Gaza, a video series where he shares his experiences and hopes.  With the help of our filmmakers Nour and Muhammad, we’ve made the first two episodes. 

• Watch Episode 1 
• Watch Episode 2 

Please share Serag’s journey with your family and friends to raise awareness and bring more support to this cause. 

Thanks for all that you do. 

Links:

• Serag's Journey with PKU in Gaza: Episode 1
• Serag's Journey with PKU in Gaza: Episode 2