January 6, 2009 — UPA's Samer Badawi appeared live on CNN to discuss the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. UPA is trying "to overcome the trauma of the occupation and the repeated military strikes on the innocent civilians of Gaza," said Badawi. View the clip here. [ends]

January 5, 2009 — UPA confirmed today that an additional 95 first aid kits were distributed to volunteer medics in eastern Gaza City, where Israel's ground assault has severely hindered access to medical care for the sick and wounded. More than 800 square meters of plastic sheeting to cover bombed-out windows and protect families from the cold were also distributed today. The effort will help more than 200 familes.  

January 4, 2009 — As southern Gaza residents hear horror stories of Israel's ground invasion from Jabaliya and other towns and villages mere miles away, they too have nowhere to flee and nowhere to hide. UPA's partner Al Huda Development Association is trying to help them cope.  

January 3, 2009 — "At UPA, our mantra has been that we must find a way to do something despite all the obstacles," UPA Director of Programs Melinda Borne told a global news audience this afternoon. She added that UPA has seen "an outpouring of support" from people around the world who are concerned about the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
 

January 3, 2009 — As much as the people of Gaza have suffered already, the worst may be yet to come. Less than three hours ago, the ground invasion began, with Israeli troops entering from the north into Beit Hanoun, from the east at Karni crossing, and from just east of Jabaliya refugee camp. This ground invasion comes even as airstrikes have continued, with 4-5 strikes within an hour. UPA staff also heard an airstrike taking place while on the phone with one of our partners in Gaza City.