Urgent Plea: Evacuate Family Amidst Gaza War

Dear Friends and everyone

I am Saleh AbuShamala, currently residing in London, United Kingdom, Amid the escalating war in the Gaza Strip and the inhumane conditions endured by my family, along with all Palestinians in the region, hopelessness prevails. The absence of any glimpse of safety is palpable, as the various weapons of the occupying army relentlessly lay waste to every corner of Gaza. I find myself rendered powerless, with my hands tied, having exhausted all attempts to rescue my family.

Saleh K. Y. Abu Shamala is a beacon of hope and resilience, a Palestinian advocate deeply embedded in the realms of cultural preservation, human rights, and educational reform. With a foundational role at 28 Magazine, he elevates Palestinian narratives while fostering youth empowerment and civic engagement in Gaza. His international collaborations extend his impact, advocating for cultural dialogue and understanding across borders. Saleh embodies the spirit of persistence, championing societal progress and the arts as avenues for change and connectivity.

My family is not just my haven; they are the very essence of my existence, a sanctuary of education and culture where dreams and aspirations flourish. In the tapestry of my life, there are my resilient father, nurturing mother, three brothers, and three sisters, each weaving countless stories and etching memories that resonate deep within my soul. They are the heartbeat of my emotional landscape, the anchors in the storms, and the warmth in every cherished moment.

However, this emotional sanctuary bears the heavy weight of a haunting memory. It has been 22 years since my younger sister, Shaima, was martyred in an Israeli bombing of our house, and none of us have recovered from that incident until this moment, which represents a nightmare for all of us. Despite the passage of time, the pain remains vivid, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of our familial bond.

The challenges my family encounters mirror the struggles of many in Gaza. Immediate aid is crucial to ensure our safety. Escalating costs associated with leaving Gaza present significant obstacles. We are launching a heartfelt fundraising campaign to offer support for my family members, facilitating their evacuation from the brutality of war.

The funds raised through this GoFundMe campaign will be dedicated to providing essential life-saving aid and facilitating the evacuation of 8 family members to Egypt. The breakdown of the $72,000 appeal is as follows:

1. Evacuation Costs: A significant portion of the funds will cover the expenses related to safely evacuating the 8 family members. This includes transportation costs, securing safe passage, and any necessary immediate accommodations before they reach their final destination in Egypt.

2. Provide life-saving aid: including medical care, food, and basic necessities upon their arrival and during their transition.

3. Support the family's settlement in Egypt: with temporary housing, living expenses, and necessary legal fees.

4. Cover GoFundMe Fees: to ensure all other funds directly aid the family.

We pledge transparency and will update donors on how their contributions are making a difference, ensuring the funds are used efficiently for the family’s urgent needs.

We express our gratitude for your support, Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact and brings hope to us during these trying times. whether through contributions or by sharing our story. Your assistance holds immense significance for us and could make a world of difference.