News
October 26th, 2023
Philanthropy’s Response to the Humanitarian Relief Needs of the Israel-Hamas War 2023
Since October 7, 2023, thousands have been killed and more than a hundred thousand have been displaced in Israel and Gaza. Palestinians and Israelis are dying and continue to suffer. In addition to this devastating loss of life, the pain, suffering, and targeting of innocent civilians makes this a uniquely terrible crisis. Notably, there are justified concerns that this conflict will exacerbate existing antisemitic and anti-Muslim movements across the world amid heightened tensions, emotions, and rapidly spreading misinformation.
Philanthropic responses, as distinguished from governmental, military, and diplomatic responses, prioritize humanitarian relief. Recognizing the deeply complex history and geopolitical issues at play, we are offering resources for funders and donors to support the unfolding humanitarian crisis. These civilian relief efforts are facing significant challenges as delivering new aid will be difficult and existing resources, such as medical supplies, are already depleted.
Social media is awash with misinformation about the Israel-Hamas conflict, so it’s especially important to verify that your money is going to organizations that are legitimate as well as effective. The Federal Trade Commission recommends searching charities’ names alongside “complaint,” “review,” “rating” and “scam” to see if any red flags come up.
You can also run a search on one of several websites that review charities’ track records, like CharityWatch and Charity Navigator. Some also compile lists of highly-rated charities responding to specific crises.
The organizations listed below are those that have long-standing experience working with the Israeli and Palestinian communities and who focus on providing emergency shelter, medical care, food, and water to the civilians impacted by the conflict.
Response Funds for Humanitarian Relief
American Friends of Magen David Adom – Donation Fund
Doctors Without Borders – Donation Fund
GlobalGiving – Israel-Palestine Crisis Relief Fund
Global Impact – Israel-Palestine Crisis Fund
International Red Cross – Donation Fund
IsraAID – Israel Emergency
Middle East Children’s Alliance (MECA) – Emergency Support for Palestinian families in Gaza
Palestine Children’s Relief Fund – Gaza Urgent Relief
Project Kesher – Emergency Fund for Israel
Save the Children – Donation Fund
United Hatzalah of Israel – Donation Fund
United Nations Relief and Works Agency – Gaza Emergency Fund
UNRWA USA National Committee – Urgent Relief to Gaza
Additional resources as compiled by NPR.