Since this conflict began in October 2023, the need in Gaza remains overwhelming.
UMCOR is actively responding to the humanitarian crisis by awarding grants to local partners in Israel, Gaza and the surrounding region. Partners are using funds for relocation support; food and hygiene kits for internally displaced people; support of students and their continued learning; psychosocial treatment and trauma counseling to women and children; delivery of medical supplies and medicines; and telemedicine services for disabled children in need of follow-up care, but without safe access to a clinic.
In early October, Global Ministries issued a joint statement on the attacks with the World Methodist Council and the Methodist Church in the United Kingdom. On Friday, Nov. 11, The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church issued a call for peace. On Monday, Nov. 13, Global Ministries General Secretary Roland Fernandes joined Churches for Middle East Peace and thirty American Christian leaders in calling for support of an immediate ceasefire, de-escalation and restraint by all involved.