Against the Odds: Our Mission in Gaza
When the Gaza conflict escalated, we—like the rest of the world—watched in heartbreak. The suffering was unbearable, the destruction unimaginable, and gaining access? Nearly impossible. But we knew from the beginning: we couldn’t just turn away.
For nearly a year, we fought for a way in. And when the door finally opened, we sent a team on the ground—determined to help in any way we could.
First, We Helped the Forgotten
Among the wreckage, we found donkeys and horses struggling to survive, wounded and emaciated. We helped establish a small medical point where they could receive treatment, food, and relief from the brutal conditions.
It was just a start—but it was something.
Establishing Lifesaving Infrastructure
With the help of local Palestinians, including veterinarian Dr. Bashar and translator and assistant Mo, we set up our own veterinary clinic—a space where animals could be brought for spay and neuter surgeries, health exams, and urgent treatments.
It became a beacon for the community—a rare place of healing in the midst of devastation.
Supporting Gaza’s Zoo
We extended our reach to the local zoo, where lions, monkeys, apes, and other animals were suffering in silence. We provided nutritious food, medical supplies, and medication, doing everything we could to ease their suffering.
Even in a place of captivity, every life mattered.
Helping Children and Communities
But our mission went beyond animals.We supported local schools and helped children with educational supplies, doing our part to bring a sense of normalcy back to young lives surrounded by trauma and war.
When the Door Closed Again
As with all humanitarian work in active conflict zones, nothing is guaranteed. Our project in Gaza came to a heartbreaking end.
Despite our determination, we operated with only a fraction of the resources that larger NGOs have. As time went on, funding became scarce, and when the ceasefire ended, access was shut down once more. The restrictions grew tighter, and getting help in became almost impossible.
With both funding and access standing firmly in our way, we were forced to make the difficult decision to withdraw.
We Didn’t Want to Leave—But We Had To
Walking away from Gaza was never part of the plan. The need is still there. The suffering hasn’t stopped. But without the ability to physically reach those in need—or the funds to sustain the mission—we had no choice.
We carry Gaza with us every day.