I have initiated this fundraiser for my uncle’s family who are currently facing a crisis in my hometown of Gaza, Palestine.

My uncle is a talented electrician with experience in solar panel systems and working with surveillance camera systems. He has worked for various companies, organizations, and individuals. He is a father of three and has been able to take care of his family remarkably well until the early October onslaught.

That October onslaught turned their lives upside down. My uncle lost his source of income, and their neighborhood lies in ruins, leaving them with nowhere to seek refuge. They were displaced multiple times, facing relentless bombardment from Israel, even in areas falsely promised as "safe." My uncle is desperate to get his family to safety in Egypt and start anew.

Deema, 19 years old, his eldest daughter, began her first year as a surgical technologist or operating room technician at the Islamic University-Gaza. Deema lost hope in continuing her education as the Islamic University was completely destroyed, with no hope in sight for the war to end.

His son, Abed, 18 years old, was about to start his final year of high school and then go to college. Abed is a special case in my uncle’s story. He has been diagnosed with epilepsy since childhood, and his condition worsened during the war due to shortages in his medications and a lack of follow-up. The bombardments and living conditions during the war have added to his suffering.

His youngest daughter, Alma, 11 years old, is a very kind and smart girl with ambitions to become a doctor in the future. Alma has experienced multiple panic attacks like other children in Gaza, putting her parents in a constant state of anxiety. Alma deserves a better life like any other child in the world.

This fundraiser is their hope for survival. We aim to raise $20,000 (approx. 28,000 CAD), including GoFundMe expenses. The only way for Palestinians in Gaza to leave is through Hala Travel company, which coordinates permits to leave via the Egypt crossing. The permits cost $5,000 for individuals above 16 years old and $2,500 for those below. My uncle has some savings to cover the permit for his youngest daughter and needs help to cover the rest of the family. The rest of the family members are above 16 years old (my uncle, his wife, Deema, and Abed) (5000*4).

Every contribution to this fundraiser is a lifeline for my relatives, offering them a chance at a safer path forward. Any help is greatly appreciated. I pledge to ensure that every penny donated goes to them, and I will ensure that every member of my uncle’s family can obtain a permit and leave.