EBRD partners with UNICEF to support Palestinians in Gaza

• EBRD provides first-ever €500,000 humanitarian grant to UNICEF under the framework of its charitable arm, the EBRD Community Initiative
• Focus on water, sanitation and hygiene services, along with targeted cash assistance in Gaza
• Support for around 50,000 people, including more than 23,000 children

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is stepping up its support for vulnerable children and families in Gaza by partnering with the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and providing its first-ever charitable donation from the EBRD's West Bank & Gaza Trust Fund.

Over a 12 month period, UNICEF will receive €500,000 to deliver critical water, sanitation and hygiene services alongside targeted cash assistance to those most in need. The initiative is expected to improve access to safe water for around 50,000 people, including more than 23,000 children, and to support about 1,400 households. Particular attention will be given to families caring for children with disabilities or injuries, given their vulnerability.

By combining the emergency provision of water with digitally delivered cash assistance, the programme will help vulnerable households meet their most urgent needs and strengthen their resilience in a highly challenging environment.

Across Gaza, almost 1.7 million people, including more than 800,000 children, remain displaced and are living in deteriorating conditions. In response, the programme will also support the provision of safe and dignified transitional shelters, helping to ensure protection, privacy and basic living standards.

UNICEF has been working on the ground tirelessly to provide children and families with essential water and sanitation, education, child protection and health services to make sure that no child is left behind.

Other charitable donations for Gaza are expected to follow through match-funding of EBRD staff fundraising efforts.