The Abu Rida Family

Alaa El Din Ahmed Abu Rida (35/M) and his pregnant wife (32/F) take care of Alaa’s parents, Ahmed (70/M) and Radhia (65/F), their three children Sami (6/M), Ahmed (3/M), and Rasail (2/F), and roughly fifteen displaced, homeless, or orphaned children in the refugee area ranging from ages 3 - 13 years.

Life Before:

Originally from Khaza’a Village in Khan Yunis Gaza, in the life before, Alaa worked at a restaurant selling sandwiches, falafel, and chatting with the community in the village. This was before the forced displacements.

Displacements:

Alaa and his family have been displaced seven times so far. During the first displacement, Alaa explains “It was at night, and we walked 10 km (6.2 miles) on foot. We were on the ground on the road without food or drink and we were tired.”

Current Situation:

Alaa and his family are currently residing in a refugee tent in the Mawasi area of Gaza. The heat inside the tent can become unbearable - however, Alaa seems to always be finding ways to gather up the local children to occupy their minds with childhood joy, if only for a moment.

I asked Alaa to describe what his days are like currently (as of August 17th, 2024) and he said “Today it was a quiet day and we sat with the family and the children in the camp. We checked on the children and the elderly. We ate and the children asked me to get some fruit. It was rotten - fermented. I could taste it was bad. Not good for any child.”

Dream for the Future:

What is your goal for this campaign? Where will donations go?

“My goal is to raise my children - but I also wish to take care of the elderly, orphans, workers, and displaced people. The money will go to help provide much more than just my family - it will help all of the children who rely on us for food, water, and shelter.” He added “And to go to Egypt, my daughter, she needs a medical boot and treatment for her leg.”

Donation Management:

100% of all donations will be delivered to Alaa via electronic banking. If you have any questions or concerns about donating please reach out and I will be happy to answer any questions.

Sponsor’s Note:

My name is Lara D’agostin and I am from West Virginia. I met Alaa through mutual friends and when asked to help sponsor his family on GoFundMe I enthusiastically accepted the great honor.

Alaa is a prime example of the best parts of humanity in times of struggle and suffering. Alaa has opened his heart and his home to share not only his children but the children of Gaza with the world. He is a kind, sweet, gentle man who cares deeply for the well-being and health of all around him. An example we all desperately need right now.

My promise to you as a sponsor is to update you regularly on Alaa and his family as long as it is needed. Thank you!