Amid conflict between Hamas and Israel Palestinian people especially those in the besieged Gaza are in dire need of help from the international community particularly from Muslim countries. Â
There are organizations consistently working in Palestine on the ground, delivering aid, providing education, and building a better future. If you’re keen to make a difference but aren’t sure where to start, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a curated list of the top 15 charities that are making noteworthy contributions in Palestine. Let’s explore who they are and the positive changes they’re championing.
1. Middle East Children’s AllianceÂ
The Middle East Children’s Alliance, commonly referred to as MECA is an NGO working on the rights and welfare of children in the Middle East. MECA supports dozens of community projects for Palestinian children and refugees from Syria. Since 1988 they have provided $29 million in food, medicine, and other aid to Palestine, Iraq, and Lebanon.
MECA works jointly with community organizations to facilitate humanitarian aid by putting up projects for children and supporting income-generation projects. They also work to increase understanding about the lives of children in the Middle East and the impact of US foreign policy on people in the region through educational and cultural programs in the US and internationally.
If you want to support this organization, you can donate directly through their website via credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal. Alternatively, you can make stock gifts, donate via EFT, sign up at workplace giving programs, donate a car or property, attend MECA events, or shop their gifts.
2. Muslim Aid USA
Muslim Aid USA is a non-profit organization that emerged in 2014 with a mission to provide humanitarian assistance and support to vulnerable communities, including those in Palestine, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. This charity organization works according to the Islamic principle of helping those in need. It wants to relieve poverty along with providing emergency relief besides promoting sustainable development.
The key healthcare services that Muslim Aid USA has organized have been essential in its work toward Palestine. The organization sponsors medical missions and mobile clinics whereby people gain easy access to quality medical care is offered. For instance, they sponsor healthcare services in remote areas, where people gain limited access to medical facilities.
To donate or get involved with Muslim Aid USA’s efforts in Palestine, you can send money directly through the website via credit card or PayPal. Additionally, they offer opportunities to participate in fundraising campaigns or volunteer for specific projects through their dedicated volunteer program.
3. InterpalÂ
Interpal is a respected and significant charity that has been supporting the Palestinian people for over 25 years. The organization was established in 1994, primarily aiming to alleviate poverty, provide vital humanitarian aid, and empower communities across Palestine. Through their impactful initiatives, Interpal has significantly contributed to improving the lives of countless Palestinians.
Interpal focuses on various areas to make a sustainable difference in Palestine. Their core programs include education and youth development, healthcare assistance, sustainable livelihoods, and emergency relief. One notable example is their significant contribution to education since they paid tuition fees and provided financial aid to thousands of Palestinian students.
If you wish to support Interpol and contribute to their impactful work, you can donate directly through their website for a specific purpose: general donation, food aid, education aid, Zakat donation, etc. Alternatively, you can volunteer or support and spread awareness about Palestinian problems.
4. Palestine Children’s Relief Fun
The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) is a registered non-government organization formed in 1991 by concerned humanitarians in the USA for the sole purpose of addressing the medical and humanitarian crisis facing Palestinian youths in the Middle East. The main goal of PCRF stands to locate free medical care for children who cannot be adequately treated somewhere within the Middle East.
Since 1991, tens of thousands of young people have received medical treatment through the PCRF. The PCRF sends medical equipment, supplies, and American medical personnel to the region to treat difficult cases and train Palestinian surgeons. Several injured or sick children are being treated in the US for free.
For those inspired by their mission, there are multiple ways to contribute or get involved with PCRF. You can donate directly through the website and make one-time or recurring payments via card or PayPal. Alternatively, you can start a fundraiser, join a matching gift program, volunteer, or donate while shopping with Amazon Smile.
5. United Palestinian AppealÂ
United Palestinian Appeal (UPA) emerged in 1978 as a humanitarian organization dedicated to empowering Palestinians and improving their quality of life. UPA operates through partnerships with local communities, organizations, and relief agencies in Palestine, ensuring its work directly benefits those in need.
The primary focus of UPA’s work is on providing essential services and support in areas such as healthcare, education, children’s welfare, food security, and economic development. By addressing these core needs, UPA aims to uplift Palestinian individuals and families impacted by conflict or socioeconomic challenges.
One example of their impact is their work in Gaza. In 2018, UPA launched its Illuminating Gaza: One Harbor at a Time project. In 2020, they completed the third harbor in the Gaza Strip as part of this project.
Those looking to support United Palestinian Appeal can donate directly through their official website via credit cards, electronic checks, phone, or wire transfers. Besides, you can honor someone with a gift, make a donation in memory of someone, donate stocks or your car, or contribute while shopping with Amazon Smile.
6. Islamic Relief USA
Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) is a prominent humanitarian organization that emerged in 1993, aiming to alleviate poverty and suffering across the globe, including Palestine. With a focus on serving vulnerable communities regardless of race, religion, or nationality, IRUSA has made significant strides in providing assistance and support to the people of Palestine.
Throughout its existence, IRUSA has been involved in numerous projects in Palestine. One impactful initiative carried out by Islamic Relief USA was their Orphan Sponsorship Program in Gaza.Through this program, they provide financial assistance and emotional support to orphaned children who have lost their parents due to conflicts or other adversities.
To donate or get involved with Islamic Relief USA’s efforts in Palestine, you can send money via credit or debit card directly through the website. Other ways to give include advocacy, volunteering, stock donations, vehicle donation, raising social media awareness, attending events, etc.
7. United Hands Relief and Development
United Hands Relief and Development (UHRD) is a noteworthy charity organization that has significantly impacted Palestine since its emergence several years ago. With a focus on aiding people affected by the ongoing conflict, UHRD plays a vital role in providing essential assistance to those who need it most.
UHRD primarily focuses on four key areas: education, healthcare, emergency response, and sustainable development. By encompassing these sectors, the organization aims to address both immediate needs and long-term solutions for the Palestinian population. In times of crises and emergencies, UHRD swiftly responds by providing relief aid such as food supplies, clean water, temporary shelter, hygiene kits, and other essentials.
If you wish to contribute or get involved with United Hands Relief and Development’s charitable endeavors in Palestine, you can make one-time or recurring payments directly through the website via credit card, PayPal, or eCheck. Alternatively, you can employ or volunteer or buy matching gifts.
8. iF Charity
iF Charity is a UK-based charity that takes action to change lives in Gaza. They are helping people across Gaza to build productive, safe, and self-sufficient communities. This dynamic organization emerged with a vision to bring hope, development, and sustainability to individuals and communities affected by conflict and political instability.
Their work includes community development, Covid-19 emergency aid, education aid, seasonal aid, and the Gaza Family Fund. One significant impact made by iF Charity was their establishment of medical clinics in remote Palestinian communities. Additionally, iF Charity has been actively involved in educational projects across Palestine.
To support iF Charity’s noble endeavors, you can send money via your credit card directly through the website. Alternatively, you can volunteer or start a fundraiser.
9. American Near East Refugee Aid
American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA) is a prominent charity organization that has been actively helping people in Palestine since its establishment in 1968. ANERA primarily addresses the urgent needs of refugees and vulnerable communities in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The work of ANERA encompasses various areas, including healthcare, education, economic development, and humanitarian aid. They strive to improve the quality of life for Palestinian families by implementing sustainable projects that aim to uplift communities from poverty and promote self-sufficiency.
To support ANERA’s cause or get involved in their mission to help Palestinians in need, you can make one-time, monthly, or Zakat giving directly through the website via credit card, bank transfer, Apple Pay, or PayPal. Besides, you can start a fundraiser, spread social media awareness, attend events, or donate in honor or memory.
10. Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC)
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) is a UK-based charity that emerged in 1982 to raise awareness and campaign for the rights of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. It is one of the UK’s largest and most active solidarity organizations working on Palestine-related issues.
The PSC engages in various types of work to support its objectives. They organize protests, demonstrations, and campaigns to raise awareness about the injustices Palestinians face. For example, PSC is part of a global movement calling for a boycott of Puma due to their sponsorship of the Israel Football Association, which includes teams in illegal Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land.
For those who want to support PSC’s work financially, they accept donations through their official website via credit card or Apple Pay. Other ways to give include volunteering, supporting PSC campaigns, joining their email list, spreading awareness, etc.
11.Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)
Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) emerged in 1984 as a response to the urgent healthcare needs of Palestinians affected by conflict, occupation, and displacement. The organization was formed with a mission to provide essential medical care to people in Palestine, who often face immense challenges due to the ongoing conflict.
For example, in 2018, MAP launched an emergency appeal to support hospitals in Gaza as they struggled to cope with the large number of casualties from the Great March of Return protests. MAP provided essential medical supplies, supported the treatment of limb injuries, and helped to rehabilitate those with long-term disabilities.
To donate or get involved with MAP’s noble cause, you can make one-time or monthly donations directly through the website via credit card. Besides, you can donate Zakat, volunteer, send a gift card, or start a fundraiser.
12. Sharek Youth Forum
Founded in 2004, Sharek is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Palestinian youth and promoting their active participation in their communities. Through a range of programs and initiatives, Sharek has significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals in Palestine.
Sharek Youth Forum operates as a platform that encourages Palestinian youth to explore their potential while also providing them with the tools they need to succeed. With an emphasis on education, personal development, and social engagement, Sharek fosters an environment that enables young Palestinians to unleash their creativity and make meaningful contributions.
Sharek Youth Forum constantly strives to expand its reach and impact. To contribute, you can reach out and donate, start a fundraiser, become a partner organization, or volunteer.
13.Palestine Red Crescent Society
The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) is a humanitarian organization that emerged on May 4, 1968, as an affiliate member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. It has since become one of the leading charitable organizations in Palestine, dedicated to assisting those affected by conflict, displacement, and poverty. PRCS operates across all Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
The PRCS provides most ambulance services in the territories, such as emergency medical and relief services to Palestinians, as mandated in 1996 by then-PLO leader Yasser Arafat. Ambulance services are provided by 15 hospitals, 33 health centers, 160 ambulances, 40 rehabilitation centers, and over 3,987 staff.
If you want to support the PRCS mission, you can donate online via credit card or bank. Alternatively, you can volunteer, establish partnerships, and participate in fundraising events such as charity runs, bake sales, or auctions with proceeds designated for PRCS programs.
14.Mercy Corps–PalestineÂ
Mercy Corps is a globally recognized non-profit organization that has been operating in Palestine since 1982. They work tirelessly to alleviate suffering, poverty, and conflict by providing essential humanitarian aid and sustainable development programs to needy individuals and communities. Last year, they reached over 37,000 people through their work.
In Palestine, Mercy Corps focuses on several key areas: improving resilience among vulnerable communities, expanding economic opportunities, enhancing youth development, promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, and strengthening community-based organizations.
For those who want to support Mercy Corps’ work financially, you can send money directly through the website via credit card. Other ways to give include volunteering, making gifts, donating cryptocurrency, giving by stocks or donor-advised funds, or even giving real estate.
15.Friends of Al-Aqsa
Friends of Al-Aqsa (FOA) is a UK-based charity that was established in 1997. It was founded as a response to the escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in Palestine, specifically focusing on the preservation and protection of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, one of Islam’s holiest sites.
The primary work of Friends of Al-Aqsa revolves around raising awareness about the plight of Palestinians, advocating for their rights, and supporting various projects that alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. FOA is committed to promoting justice, peace, and human rights by addressing political, social, and humanitarian issues on both local and international levels.
To support their efforts, you can donate directly through the website via Apple Pay or a credit card. Alternatively, you can volunteer, attend their events and boycotts, or spread awareness on social media.
