March 15, 2008 | In Gaza we keep our fingers crossed, even for simple things. It’s hard to plan, even for the next couple minutes or hours. Electricity can go out suddenly. There are few transportation choices, because there is so little fuel. Public transportation is more expensive. Supermarkets are almost empty.

But there is a bright spot. ANERA has been able to get three shipments of vitamin-rich milk and biscuits through the border and we are delivering it all to over 160 preschools.

I just went with Mona, manager of our Milk for Preschoolers Program, on a delivery trip to El-AHED preschool in Jabalia. The kids there are poor and suffering. Many are nearly barefooted and have to walk to and from school everyday.

As soon as the kids saw the milk, they all got up and rushed out of the classroom. They were washing their hands, a custom before getting a favorite treat. “It is wonderful, said Mona, "to be able to give them something sweet and nutritious to keep them happy even in the middle of their hardships."

Read previous entry.

Read next entry.