January 14 2009

Kiwis see past politics and give to Gaza appeal

AS the death toll in the Gaza war nears 1000, Kiwis have responded quickly by giving to TEAR Fund’s Gaza appeal. TEAR Fund is on target to raise NZ$30,000 and anticipates raising more than NZ$50,000

TEAR Fund executive director Stephen Tollestrup said he is pleased that Kiwis are seeing past the politics of the situation.

“The conflict between Israel and Palestine has a tendency to polarise opinion but New Zealanders are responding to the desperate need of the real victims of the conflict. As with all wars, it is the innocent civilians caught in the middle who suffer the most,” he said.

Through its regional relief partners, TEAR Fund is providing water, medicine, fuel, clothing, emergency rations and shelter to those injured and displaced but more is still needed. Even a small donation can help. For instance $20 can provide a blanket or $30 to $40 can buy much-needed basics such as clean water or food rations.

Donations can be made through TEAR Fund’s emergency appeal for Gaza at www.tearfund.org.nz., or by phoning 0800 800 777.

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Editor’s note: Mr Tollestrup is an expert on the Israeli, Palestinian conflict. He has written extensively on the subject and often travels to the region.

ENDS

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