Hi my name is Trish and I am fundraising for my good friend Amal. Here is Amal’s story:

My name is Amal Abu Sleima. I am a Palestinian mother and a survivor of the devastating war in Gaza. I escaped with my little son, Kenan, after months of fear, bombing, hunger, and displacement. We lost our home, our loved ones, our memories, and our sense of safety. Many dear friends of mine were killed. To protect my son and give him a chance at a safe life, I had to take enormous risks. I spent everything I had to get us out: Transportation costs, border fees, medical checks, travel expenses, and temporary housing every step was expensive and frightening. Today, we are in South Africa trying to rebuild our lives, but the cost of rent, food, transportation, and medical care is far beyond what I can manage right now. Kenan needs medical follow-ups for his eyes and previous injuries, and I also need eye care after losing my glasses during the war. I am unable to work yet because I must wait for my residency and asylum process to be completed. We are not settled yet. I am trying to start from zero and rebuild my life by working and teaching Arabic again but we need temporary support until I can stand on my own feet. This is why I am asking, from a mother’s heart, for your help. Your donation will help us pay for housing, food, basic needs, and essential medical appointments until I am able to work independently. Every contribution, no matter how small, truly makes a difference. Thank you for helping me and my son, Kenan, rebuild our lives after surviving the war. With love, Amal & Kenan