My name is Youssef, and I'm a Palestinian chef living in Alice Springs, Australia.

For as long as I can remember, food has been how my family showed love. Some of my earliest memories are of cooking alongside my grandmother, learning the recipes that have been passed down through generations. Those recipes are more than meals. They carry our history, our culture, and our sense of home.

Today, my family is trying to rebuild after losing almost everything.

Thirty-four members of my family were displaced from Gaza during the war and have since been evacuated to Egypt. Although they escaped immediate danger, they are now living as refugees, facing the daily challenge of finding stable housing, food, medical care, education for their children, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Living in Australia while my family faces these challenges has been incredibly difficult. I wanted to do something meaningful, something that reflects who we are.

Instead of simply asking for donations, I decided to cook.

On Saturday 22 August, I'm hosting a Palestinian pita fundraiser in Alice Springs, where I'll be serving two recipes inspired by my grandmother's cooking. Every pita I make is a way of sharing a piece of Palestine with my community, and 100% of the profits will be added to this fundraiser.

The money raised will go directly towards helping my family cover essential living expenses in Egypt, including:

Food and groceries

Rent and housing

Medical care

Children's education

Everyday necessities as they rebuild their lives

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference.

If you're unable to donate, sharing this campaign with your friends and family would mean just as much.

Thank you for standing with my family and helping preserve not only our future, but also the traditions and recipes that continue to connect us across generations.

With gratitude,

Youssef