Call for Donations #3

22.1.2024

Call for Donations #3: Sanitary Needs in Camps for Displaced Persons in Gaza

Dear all,

We, Seba and Tom, are raising donations for the construction of toilets and showers in the camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Gaza, in an effort to reduce the threat of a sanitary crisis, the exposure to viruses and sewage, and the spreading of diseases. At the moment, we are focusing on Mawasi Rafah (at the southern part of Gaza) – where there are currently approximately 200,000 internally displaced persons. 

Our first two rounds of fund-raising have already allowed us to assist with the construction of six units, each is comprised of two toilets and two shower cabinets and serves approximately 60 persons – and this is a great success indeed. In the photos attached, you can see the construction process of such a unit that has already been funded. 

The toilets and showers are made of wood, plastic covers/tents, cement, toilet cabinets, water tanks, and pipes, and each unit costs approximately 500€. As a way of coping with the ongoing inability to get materials and goods into Gaza, we have implemented a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, wherein the Gazan community has a major role in supplying, building, and maintaining the toilets and showers. With your donations, and the assistance of "Damur for Community Development", we are able buy these components and equipment through Gaza Life Power, and they are then constructed by community representatives. Our aim is to build as many units as possible, and we hope in the future to expand our initiative by purchasing and distributing other sanitary commodities such as diapers, sanitary pads, toilet paper, etc. 

We have created a donation "fund" that is coordinated and monitored by me (Tom); I am in charge of collecting the donations, listing them, and then transferring them either to the west bank through Damur or to Gaza, while keeping a conscientious log that is transparent and accessible to all those who have donated. Naturally, we are doing this voluntarily. 

All donations, in all sums, are significant and appreciated –  you can donate directly to our PayPal address paypal.me/cleanshelter, and/or contact us via email: cleanshelter.ngo@gmail.com. You are also very welcomed to share our call for donations on social media (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100071086857154/posts/412932594419632/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v; Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/p/C1yoMRhMjCt/?igsh=NzBmMjdhZWRiYQ), and/or send it to friends and acquaintances that may be interested in contributing to our donation fund. 

We thank you in advance, 

Seba Salem and Tom Kellner.