Despite the pain and suffering evident across the West Bank and Gaza, there is a way forward for Palestinians, Israelis, and those who support them. The way forward begins with hope, and hope begins with ordinary human beings who, as my experience here has shown me again and again, have the courage and compassion to overcome their differences and embrace their common future.

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Hunger Crisis Intensifies

If you think food prices in the U.S. are increasing too rapidly, the situation in the Gaza Strip will make your head spin.

The World Food Programme reports that prices for the most basic goods have nearly doubled in the past 6 months, from about $35 for a bag of wheat flour in November to $58 a month ago to between $64 and $69 today.

Meanwhile, a liter of olive oil has risen from $3.50-$3.75 six months ago to $7.25-$8.70 -- this in a place where 80% of the people are surviving on less than $2 a day. Not surprisingly, more than 80 percent of families in Gaza continue to rely on food aid.

Since the siege of Gaza began in June of last year, UPA has shipped more than 18 tons of food aid to the neediest families in Gaza. To do more, we need your help today.

To learn more about all the ways you can help the people of Gaza, please read on. To make a donation today, please visit our secure contributions page.

The situation in Gaza is dire, but Palestinians in the West Bank and in the refugee camps of Lebanon also face a daily struggle to meet their basic health, education, and food needs. UPA is committed to helping Palestinians in these areas through a variety of high-impact programs, from child sponsorship, scholarships and other educational assistance, to income generation and innovative community development projects.

All are done in partnership with registered nongovernmental organizations and in accordance with U.S. charitable guidelines. Learn more about UPA and its work here.

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