Rome – Cologne 24 September 2024 – On 18 September around midnight, an additional aid delivery reached the people in northern Gaza. It was the third delivery of vital relief supplies to the parish in Gaza, carried out in the context of the Memorandum of Understanding signed last May between the Latin Patriarchate and the Sovereign Order of Malta. The delivery was distributed to all people in need on Monday 23 September.

A total of 40 tons of food kits were delivered for distribution by Malteser International- the Order of Malta’s worldwide relief agency – at the new distribution Centre established by the Latin Patriarchate near the Patriarchate’s compound in northern Gaza. In addition to the provision of non-perishable food, such as (canned) chickpeas, dates and meat, this time the delivery included fresh fruit and vegetables. For many of the people this will be the first time in months they have access to fresh vegetables and fruit, vital for their health. This aid delivery is aimed at supporting 1,000 families of 5 persons each, for a period of 1 month.

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Sovereign Order of Malta continue their planning for the delivery of additional aid to Gaza in the coming months. Plans are also underway to create facilities for the provision of medical care on the ground.