PSAC has pledged $50,000 for urgent humanitarian relief in Gaza as the conflict continues to escalate. More than half of Gaza’s population has been forced to flee their homes, and reports say more than 14,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began following the October 7 Hamas attack that killed more than 1,200 Israelis.

Limited humanitarian aid has been permitted to enter Gaza, and with the health system facing potential collapse due to lack of basic necessities and fuel to keep the hospitals operating, it’s imperative to move as much relief, water, and medical supplies into Gaza as quickly as possible.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, PSAC has allocated $25,000 each to two humanitarian agencies in Gaza: the Palestinian Red Crescent Society and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.

These organizations will use the funds to distribute supplies to refugee camps, hospitals, and schools where thousands have sought refuge.

In October, PSAC signed on to Ceasefire Now, a pan-Canadian coalition of humanitarian, labour, and faith groups calling on the Canadian government to take urgent action to end the Israel-Palestine conflict.

PSAC continues to urge the Canadian government to call for an immediate cease-fire to prevent any further loss of life and lend its support in finding a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict, which includes calling for the end of the occupation of Palestinian territories.