Urgent: Help Evacuate My Family From Gaza War

My name is Amal Abu Shammala, I am a licensed Palestinian architect based in Berlin and a permanent resident in Germany. I am reaching out to you in a time of immense distress as my family, currently in Gaza, faces the devastating consequences of the ongoing war. Having survived five previous war aggressions on Gaza, they now find themselves in a perilous situation.

Since 2021, I have been separated from my family due to the war, unable to return. My father, mother, two sisters, as well as my aunt, uncle, and their children are all in Gaza, confronting insurmountable danger.

My beloved mom Manal S.M. Abushammala and my two sisters

After October 7th, my family was compelled to evacuate to the south, leaving behind our home in Northern Gaza with just a single backpack each as the area became increasingly unsafe. Forced to walk for miles in search of refuge, we left not only our physical residence but also cherished memories and possessions. The fate of our house remains unknown, as our area was bombed multiple times, compelling us to flee for our lives repeatedly. Tragically, we also lost our shops at the beginning of the conflict on 15-07-2023.

Eman I.M. Abushammala -my dearest sister -19 years old now.

Each passing day sees the situation growing more grave and dangerous. Deprived of basic necessities such as water, food, clothing, bedding, and medicine, my family faces the harsh reality of Israel's cut-off of electricity and water, along with frequent bombings targeting vital food sources like bakeries. Communication is a luxury, with no internet connection or ways to charge a cell phone. The inability to reach them for days or even weeks leaves me devastated, affecting my work and sleep here in Berlin. Everyday I feel paralyzed by fear and anxiety, tirelessly attempting to ensure their safety in the dire and constant danger they face, 24/7.

Tala I.M. Abushammala -my youngest sister -16 years old now.

In the past month, their last refuge in Khan-Yunis was besieged, with sniper fire and tank attacks endangering their lives. Their shelter was bombed while they were inside, narrowly escaping. Running for about an hour, they found a tent at first, only to have it collapse in the rain, leaving them with soaked bedding and clothes. Currently, they have no shelter, no refuge, and lack the essentials for survival. With winter setting in, the situation becomes increasingly dire, and each day is marked by terror. The trauma they endure on an hourly basis is excruciating, making the need for assistance to get my family out of Gaza as soon as possible more urgent than ever.

Here are some photos taken by my sisters from the war after October 7:

Photo 1 (Home):

In this photo, you can witness my room view in Gaza. It was captured during the Israel airstrikes and bombings targeting the Bank of Palestine, located in front of our home.

This photo also shows the heartbreaking destruction of my home, street, and neighborhoods.

Photo 2 (Bag Leaving Home):

"This bag holds more than belongings; it encapsulates the heart-wrenching departure from home during the war. Each item hastily packed represents the urgency, fear, and resilience my family faced, fleeing in search of safety.

Photo 3 (Mud Oven for Bread):

"In the midst of adversity, my family relies on this old, rusty mud oven to bake the only meal they have each day—bread. It stands as a symbol of endurance and resourcefulness.

photo 4 (Daily Survival Meal):

Minced Beans, known as Falafel, a vegetarian Palestinian dish. With limited access to meat for the past four months, my family relies on Falafel as their main daily meal.

Photo 5 (Sister's Injured Hand):

This image tells a painful story. My sister, in her escape from the bombings, injured her hand.

I am initiating this fundraising campaign to evacuate my family through the Rafah/Egypt crossing, providing them with the means to escape the life-threatening conditions they are enduring. The urgency of their situation is critical, and your support can make a significant difference.

They are all stuck in Gaza and require financial support to evacuate the Gaza Strip immediately.

Breakdown of Expenses:

Your donations, regardless of the amount, will contribute to the immediate evacuation of my family from Gaza. The funds will be used exclusively for this purpose, with additional support provided for their accommodation.

I kindly ask for your assistance in sharing this campaign widely to help us reach our fundraising goal and bring my family to safety. Your compassion and generosity are crucial in ensuring their evacuation and well-being.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Amal Abu Shammala