Rebuilding Lives: Help Riham's family out of Gaza

I am posting on behalf of my good friend, Mohammed, and his wife, Riham. All funds will be transferred to her family directly.

Here is their story:

I am reaching out to you on behalf of my family in Gaza who are trapped in the relentless destruction. Our lives have been shattered by the current conflict, and we are seeking your support to rebuild what was once a happy family with a thriving business.

Our story begins with my father, Abd Elrazeq, a coffee merchant who, for three decades, poured his heart and soul into a small business ‘ElBasha Cafe’ that served as sustenance for our family in the challenging conditions of Gaza City. Tragically, our dreams were obliterated as the place where we roasted and ground coffee, along with the coffee shop itself, were completely destroyed. There are 17 people who relied on this business for survival.

The devastating reality is that my entire family, including my two brothers, three sisters, and their collective nine children, now find themselves without a home. Their apartments in Tal El Hawa in Gaza City were fully destroyed, leaving them displaced. They have endured multiple displacements, fleeing from one area to another, living in tents, and facing harsh winter weather without proper shelter. Not only are they in constant fear of bombings, but they also grapple with the scarcity of essentials - gas, food, and water - adding an additional layer of hardship to their already challenging circumstances.

While they continue to endure the ongoing crisis, we pray for a ceasefire, but we are uncertain about what lies ahead. The nightmare of losing our homes and livelihoods has left us broken. My family, especially the children, are mentally scarred by the neverending fear of bombings and the brutality that has unfolded on the streets of Gaza.

Your contribution will:

Our goal is to find a new home where our children can play without fear, go to school, and dream of becoming whatever they aspire to be. We believe in the power of collective compassion to rebuild lives and restore hope. We appreciate your kindness, compassion, and willingness to make a difference in the lives of those who have lost everything. Please help us rebuild our dreams and give our family the chance for a new beginning.

Mohammed and Riham will provide updates on the family in the comments section.

Meet the family: