My name is Ghassan. I am writing to you from a tent in Southern Gaza, where I live with my wife and our three children — Ayat, Muhammad, and little Zaid. Just a few meters away, my brother’s family and my two cousins are in their own tents. My elderly mother, 78 years old and frail, is with them. We are nine souls, scattered across three tents, trying to survive together - but not under one roof.
We were forced to leave our homes, not because we wanted to, but because there was nothing left - no safety, no water, no food, no shelter. Now, we are part of a sea of tents stretching across the sand, packed so tightly that even walking between them is hard. This was called a “safe zone,” but there is no safety here. The bombs still fall. The drones still hover. And every night, we hear the screams of families who have lost someone - just like us.
I feel the weight of protecting my mother, my siblings, my children. I am entirely dependent on aid and donations to bring back bread, milk, or medicine. But the supplies are never enough. I share what I can with my brother’s family, but we are all running out - of food, of strength, of hope.
Zaid is seven, has severe autism and seizure disorder. My mother’s blood pressure is rising, and I have no way to treat her. I visit her tent every day, holding her hand, telling her we will make it. But the truth is, I don’t know how much longer we can endure this - the heat, the dust, the fear, the hunger.
My friends Rabeea and Linda are helping me with this fundraising campaign. Every donation can buy a blanket, food, or medicine for my family. Your kindness is the only light we have.
If you can, please give. Share our story. Let the world know we are still here - nine souls, side by side, clinging to life. From the bottom of my heart - thank you. May God protect you, as I pray He protects us.
— Ghassan
This fundraiser is organized by Rabeea Zafar from Canada.
Family members of Ghassan Abu Raida include: Haya Abu Raida, Aya, Mohammed, and Zaid , all currently living in Gaza.
Funds collected will be sent to them via PayPal and used for basic life essentials.