Promoting Child Literacy in Palestine

Sadly, many of our literacy activities were interupted this summer.

Seven weeks of Israeli attacks from the ground, air and sea devastated the entire Gaza Strip. MECA and our parnters in Gaza had to switch priorities. Instead of offering summer camps, reading buddies, and providing new books for the renovated reading room at Rachel Corrie Children's Center, we were busy distributing food, water, and hygiene kits to displaced families who fled their homes. More than 500,000 people were living in schools or with friends and relatives during the attacks in hopes of finding a safer place for their children.

At least one child who was a member of our partner center in Rafah was killed by Israeli airstrikes, he was one of more than 500 children killed by Israeli attacks on Gaza this summer. 

MECA and all our friends and partners in Gaza are thankful for the start of a long-term ceasefire this week. As soon as we finish assessing the damage to our partners and projects, we will get back to work providing important recreational and educational activities for children. 

Meanwhile, our partner center in Jerusalem also had a tough center. Settler violence was on the rise and they canceled many of their outdoor activities to keep the children inside and safe from violence or kidnappings. The library was full to capacity throughout June, July and August as children came to read stories, play games, learn about creative writing, and compose messages to children in Gaza. 

We hope our next update will reflect on happier times for Palestinian children.