Holding the Line in #Gaza – A Personal Update (March 9, 2025)

by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer of the #GazaSoupKitchen

"Hey Friends,

Wanted to check in with an update on what’s happening in Gaza and what we’ve been up to at the Gaza Soup Kitchen. Things are still unbelievably tough, but we’re keeping the fire going—literally and figuratively.

Food and Supplies – It’s Only Getting Harder

Food isn’t being allowed in, and essentials like vegetables and meat are nearly impossible to find. Many people haven’t seen fresh produce or protein in weeks. Restaurants are shutting down because they simply don’t have ingredients to cook with, and the exchange rate is climbing again, making everything even more expensive for people who have nothing left.

Even with all that, we’re still cooking every day. We’ve managed to keep going, and right now, we have enough food supplies to last about two more weeks. After that? We’ll figure it out, just like we always do. We may have to scale back food parcels, but we’re determined to keep meals coming. Chicken is likely off the menu—without widespread refrigeration, there’s no way to store it safely.

Here’s what we did just today:
Cooked at all five of our locations
Delivered 75 food boxes to struggling families
Sent 150 meals to hospitals
Distributed 10 containers of drinking water

Life for Displaced Families – No Relief in Sight

Nothing is improving for displaced families. They’re still living in tents that don’t protect them from the rain or the heat. Supplies are drying up, medicine is scarce, and hospitals are barely functioning. It’s a grinding crisis. People are resilient, but you can feel the exhaustion setting in.

I know that for many outside, Gaza isn’t in the headlines like it was before. People move on, news cycles shift, attention fades. But the suffering hasn’t stopped—#Palestinians are still being targeted, families are still struggling, and there’s no real ceasefire in place. We can’t afford to look away.

The Money Talk – Spending More Than We’re Bringing In

My displaced Palestinian accountant (yes, really) sent me a message after going through our February bank statement. His exact words? 'Hani, you’re spending way more than you brought in. Maybe slow it down?'

I told him straight up — 'Not happening.' The community doesn’t need us to slow down; they need us to keep going. We’re not reckless, but we’re preparing for Ramadan—stocking up food, keeping locations ready, and making sure we can feed as many people as possible in the weeks ahead.

What’s Next?

We need:
More aid to get through
Access to essential supplies
Rebuilding materials to be allowed in

Until that happens, we’ll keep cooking. We’re not stopping.

Thanks for standing with us—this is only possible because of you. Your support means the world, and I hope you know that. More soon.

Hani

P.S. Please know that I hate talking about money—I’d much rather focus on the impact we’re making. But just to give you a sense of how far your support goes:

$30 buys a food box for a family in need

$200 delivers drinking water to 200 families

$8 provides a nourishing meal to someone who hasn't eaten in days

$200 runs our medical point for an entire day, providing care and comfort to 70+ people

Every dollar counts and makes a real difference in the lives of those we’re trying to help. Your generosity is what keeps us going."

Donate:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily
#NorthGaza #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #Fundraisers #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #BeitLahiya #BaitLahiya #KhanYounes #Palestine #Genocide #Starvation #IsraeliWarCrimes #NorthernGaza
Remember #ChefMahmoud
#HumanRightsAreNeverWrong

#GazaSoupKitchen: Update on March 2, 2025 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Dear comrade,

#Ramadan is here, and all hands are on deck for the people of #Gaza.

Today:

Five different locations that you support are serving hot meals, each offering at least two dishes and feeding 300+ families.

We’ve been averaging 150 food boxes packed with essentials and groceries. I’ve been telling the team: buy what you can while you can—because sure enough, the Israelis announced they’re shutting the crossings and denying aid to Gaza. Prices shot up immediately, supplies are running low, and without refrigerators, fresh food like chicken and produce will spoil. Aid is free, but when it's denied, people will search for it.

Our team has stocked enough food for about ten days to sustain operations, meaning we’ll distribute even more food boxes until the market stabilizes. This morning, we dropped off 320 food boxes in #Jabalia. Tomorrow, we’ll do more. This kind of planning only happens because you rally around us.

A well-staffed medical point is serving up to 100 patients daily, offering primary care, dental care, baby and elderly support, and physiotherapy—all working hand in hand to bring comfort in these incredibly difficult times. The clinic also provides essentials like baby formula and diapers for children, as well as free basic medicine for those who need it most.

Eight to ten water trucks are reaching different neighborhoods in North Gaza. Remember: no aid means no fuel, and no fuel means it’s harder to pump water from the ground.

60 care packages distributed daily to little kids, sometimes tjese jabe snacks, other times essential like cheeses and jams.

140 hot meals are being delivered daily to hospitals, nourishing both patients and the medical staff keeping people alive.

Our team is expanding, giving us more mobility to take on bigger tasks at lightning speed. Just yesterday, we secured 350 blankets and delivered them to tent communities within hours. We did the same with food boxes. The faster we move, the more people we reach.

But what truly weighs on me is the relentless scrutiny from voices—trolls, really—who comment on the food we serve as if a meal somehow erases the suffering. Every plate we prepare is a battle—to secure funds, to find ingredients, to cook in a place where even the basics are scarce. And yet, when we share a meal prepared with love, some use it as an excuse to deny the reality of Gaza.

We are more than our suffering, but our suffering is real. No amount of bad-faith arguments will change that.

None of this happens without your love, support, and generosity. You are part of this movement, and together, we are making a difference—one meal, one blanket, one act of care at a time. Thank you for standing with Gaza.

P. S. This week Sumud Podcast started sharing different segments of a two hour recording sessions I had with the hosts three weeks ago, I hope you get a chance to listen in."

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily
#Ceasefire #Hope #NorthGaza #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #BeitLahiya #BaitLahiya #KhanYounes #Palestine #HumanRightsAreNeverWrong #NorthernGaza
Remember #ChefMahmoud

#GazaSoupKitchen: Update on January 28, 2025 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Hi, Salaam, and hello everyone,

Thank you for your patience—I know I’m a few days late with this update, and I truly appreciate your understanding. It’s been an emotional roller coaster of a week, but off we go.

Despite the unbearable reality in Gaza, this week has given us rare moments of joy. We’ve seen heartwarming reunions—families hugging for the first time in 15 months, children embracing their parents, grandparents holding their grandkids. It’s a lot to process, but these moments remind us why we keep going.

At the same time, the harsh truth remains: most people returning to the north are finding their homes damaged or destroyed. Nine out of ten families come back to rubble, and yet, they return because Gaza is home. That’s why we’re shifting our operations northward, where traditionally 65% of Gaza’s population lived.

We’ve closed our two kitchens in the south, but in their place, we’ve distributed food parcels, snack packs, fresh produce, and meal kits—allowing families to cook for themselves. It’s been a meaningful way to serve, but our focus now is on the three operational soup kitchens in Gaza City.

#BeachCamp: Originally planned for just another week, but the need is too great to close. Many of our crew members lost their homes in #BeitLahia and #Jabalia, and they’re staying near the kitchen to serve their community. We’re keeping it open to provide meals for up to 400 families daily.

#AlNasr: Quickly becoming a central hub, serving up to 300 families daily. Our team is working hard to manage the crowd and ensure meals reach as many as possible.

#ArabBaptistHospital: This kitchen has been delivering not just meals but dignity—serving items like kebabs, rice, and fresh sandwiches. The hospital even gave us a certificate of appreciation, a gesture that meant so much to our team.

Beyond food, water is critical. Without it, people can’t clean up, rebuild, or even stay in their neighborhoods. We’ve been delivering four water trucks a day to #NorthGaza, and tomorrow will be our biggest push yet—aiming for 10 trucks. We’re urging all humanitarian actors to prioritize water delivery, especially to hard-to-reach areas like Jabalia.

We’re also working to establish a larger, permanent soup kitchen, likely in #Mashrua, Beit Lahia. The only thing holding us back is logistics—our kitchen equipment is stuck in the south, and we haven’t yet found a way to transport it north. But we’ll get there.

And as always, we’re dreaming bigger. Maybe we can revive the school #ChefMahmoud started. Maybe we can expand our support for orphans. But for now, we’re focused on the essentials—food, water, shelter, and clothing.

None of this would be possible without you. You have given so much to Gaza, and you deserve a moment of joy, of celebration. Every meal served, every drop of water delivered, every family supported—it’s because of your generosity. So please, take a deep breath and know that your kindness is making a real, tangible difference.

Additionally, I had the chance to speak with #NPR's local affiliate about what gives me, as a Palestinian, a sense of community. It was such an uplifting conversation, and the Gaza Soup Kitchen took center stage—because of all of you and the incredible things we’ve accomplished together. Every step of the way, every smile, every bite, and every drop of water has been a testament to our collective effort.

With gratitude and appreciation,
Hani"

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily
#Ceasefire #Hope #NorthGaza #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #BeitLahiya #BaitLahiya #KhanYounes #Palestine #HumanRightsAreNeverWrong #NorthernGaza #Gaza

#GazaSoupKitchen: A Letter from the Heart

Update on January 18, 2025 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Dear Friends, Supporters, and Allies,

You’ve done something remarkable—together, we’ve stood with Gaza during a time of unimaginable hardship. Your love, generosity, and unwavering support have been felt deeply by the crew, the families, and the children who’ve benefitted from your kindness. Share these moments with your loved ones, because you’ve made a difference in ways that can’t be put into words.

As the ceasefire approaches, there’s a cautious sense of hope. The mood in Gaza is golden, though fragile. People are smiling, holding on to the possibility of peace, even as they navigate the shadows of loss. Your contributions are a testament to the power of love and solidarity.

---

Southern Gaza: Resilience in Action

Our southern teams have worked tirelessly to deliver aid while prioritizing safety.

Chicken and Rice: 120 families in Khan Younes received freshly prepared meals.

Fresh Fruits: A luxury just weeks ago, we distributed fruit bundles to 128 families—a moment of joy amidst chaos.

Food Parcels in Al Zawaydah: Over 200 parcels, filled with canned goods, jams, and cheeses, were distributed to families who needed them most.

With aid increasing, it’s no surprise that certain “organized criminals” have vanished—proof of their ties to forces trying to control resources.

---

Northern Gaza: Cooking Through the Chaos

In the north, our teams haven’t missed a beat:

Hospital Meals: Chef Kabar at Al Nasser broke new ground by adding almonds to meals, a moment of innovation and nutrition.

Beach Camp Kitchen: Chef Faten and her sons, Yousef and Mohamed, continue creating beautiful meals with love and determination.

‍ The Fantastic Four & Five Guys Teams: These kitchen heroes at Al Nasser have been unstoppable in their commitment to feeding families.

Even as the north remains unstable, two tent-city kitchens and a school-based location will continue to serve families and hospitals in dire need.

---

Water: Life-Saving and Essential

We’ve doubled our water delivery capacity, now transporting 4,000 liters per trip compared to the previous 2,500 liters. Clean water is inexpensive but vital, and your support has ensured this lifeline remains available to so many.

---

Looking Forward: Hope Beyond the Horizon

Drinking Water: We’re working on scaling up deliveries to meet the ongoing need.

Education and Care: We’re exploring plans to reopen the school Chef Mahmoud built and provide additional support to orphans.

We dream of a day when fewer families wait in line for food, when displacement is a distant memory, and when Gaza’s strength is matched by lasting peace.

---

Gratitude from the Heart

This isn’t just about meals or water—it’s about dignity, resilience, and the hope for a better tomorrow. Thank you for being part of this journey, for standing by Gaza when it mattered most. Your support ensures that we can adapt, serve, and continue honoring the legacy of generosity and service.

Together, we go farther.

Hani

P.S. I spoke on CNN this morning, sharing the stories of suffering and survival from Gaza. It’s rare to speak with happy news in mind, but today, there’s hope—and that feels extraordinary."

Read more / donate / share:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily?viewupdates=1&rcid=r01-173221650335-4b67c31ca83d11ef&utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_email%2B1137-update-supporters-v5b
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#AlShaikhRadwan

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on January 10, 2025 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Dear Supporters,

Another week has passed, and I’m back with updates from the ground in #Gaza. While there’s talk of a ceasefire deal, I believe it’s little more than a gimmick—a distraction used to prolong suffering while giving political players the chance to pat themselves on the back. As the powerful negotiate in luxury, the people of Gaza endure relentless hardship—cold, hungry, and unsafe. Just my two cents.

Before diving into Gaza updates, I want to express solidarity with the people of California who are facing devastating wildfires. My heart goes out to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.

Now, to the heart of the matter: the incredible work your generosity has made possible.

Soup Kitchens: Staying Strong

Our six soup kitchen locations remain fully operational, serving at capacity despite the immense challenges. We’ve also increased drinking water deliveries to six trucks daily, ensuring more families have access to clean water.

Here’s what’s happening across Gaza:

Khan Younes:
Crowds have grown significantly, and the team has stepped up, adding more pots to meet the need. Their food is delicious, their work tireless, and their photos uplifting. This location is now a hub of activity with three initiatives: the soup kitchen, the classroom, and the daily water deliveries. They’ve even added staff to enhance flavors and expand their impact.

Al Zawaydah:
This is our largest location, and the team here is nothing short of heroic. They cook every day, ensuring meals are hearty and nutritious by investing in extra vegetables. They’ve introduced a patron card system that guarantees meals while keeping capacity for new faces. It’s a well-oiled machine, driven by compassion.

Beach Camp:
Chef Faten and her team are doing wonders here. Five days a week, they bake savory pies, mini pizzas, sweet breads, and pastries. Fridays are reserved for rice dishes, a staple that also sustains three other locations in North Gaza, including the one providing meals for the Arab Baptist Hospital.

Al Shaikh Radwan:
Our northernmost location came under fire this week, with bullets landing alarmingly close to the cooking pots. It gave the crew a scare, but they soldiered on. Their courage inspires us all.

Hospital Deliveries:
Chef Kabar and his team prepare meals daily for the Arab Baptist Hospital, with Omar and Fatema ensuring these hot meals are delivered safely. Their dedication makes us so proud.

What’s Next?

I often ask myself: How can we do more? What else can we do? Sometimes we have answers; other times, we don’t. What’s certain is that our work remains critical. From distributing blankets, classroom supplies, to hygiene kits and care packages in both North and South Gaza, every dollar you donate is stretched to serve the community.

We need more resources, yes. And while moving funds into Gaza is a constant challenge, we persist, finding ways to get resources into the hands of our courageous crews who make all this magic happen.

How Can You Help?

Share and Engage: Social media platforms are slowing us down, and we need your help to amplify our stories. Share, engage, and tag us—it makes a bigger difference than you might think.

Boycott and Advocate: Support ethical companies and continue advocating for peace with justice.

Keep Gaza in Your Prayers: Your prayers and well wishes matter.

Thank you for being such incredible allies. Your generosity keeps the Gaza Soup Kitchen alive, and your support inspires us to keep going. Together, we’re making a tangible difference.

With gratitude and hope,
Hani
Gaza Soup Kitchen Team"

Read more / donate / share:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily?viewupdates=1&rcid=r01-173221650335-4b67c31ca83d11ef&utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_email%2B1137-update-supporters-v5b
#NorthGaza #IsraeliWarCrimes #Starvation #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #IsraelHumanRightsViolations
#StopArmingIsrael #WorldWarBibi #BeitLahiya #BaitLahiya #BibiIsAWarCriminal #Genocide #GoFundMe #KhanYounes #Palestine #HumanRightsAreNeverWrong #NorthernGaza #Gaza #AlZawaydah #KamalAdwan #KamalAdwanHospital
#AlShaikhRadwan

#HR9495 could cripple #NonProfits like the #GazaSoupKitchen! #StopHR9495, #StopArmingIsrael, #FreeGaza!

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on November 22, 2024 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Hello and warm greetings to all of you,

"I'm honored to share an update on the ongoing operations of the Gaza Soup Kitchen throughout the Gaza Strip. Here’s what's been happening:

North Gaza—Mashrou Bait Lahia and Kamal Adwan Hospital

"Due to severe safety concerns, the family in Mashrou Bait Lahia can no longer cook for Kamal Adwan Hospital. With many staff members fleeing, Chef Mahmoud, his family, and my parents are among the last five families still in the area. In response, Chef Mahmoud made a bold decision—he moved everything from our Gaza Soup Kitchen warehouse into the hospital. This included over four tons of food and supplies: canned goods, flour, rice, pasta, lentils, cooking oil, tomato paste, diapers, wipes, baby formula, blankets, children's clothes, and more. This crucial delivery will allow the hospital to feed its patients for the next few weeks.

"The hospital staff was deeply moved by the support; it was their first in-kind donation in 40 days. The head of the hospital, Dr. Husam, embraced Mahmoud, who has a special connection to this place—his baby daughter was born there just four days ago. A miracle amidst the chaos, though there's no official place to register her birth or even give her a name. To continue supporting, our crew will likely start cooking directly from inside the hospital. Meanwhile, my parents remain steadfast, even as we mourn the loss of 60 neighbors from a recent airstrike, including our own relatives.

Beach Camp—A New Location in North Gaza

"After relocating west of Gaza City, Chef Faten has set up a new operating kitchen in the Beach Camp area. Today marked the inaugural day, and it was heartwarming to see Chef Om Ahmad and others from our original location come together to help. They managed to cook for 200 families. It’s bittersweet—children lined up the moment they smelled the food. Thanks to the facilities at this new site, Chef Faten can act quickly and provide meals to those in need. Your support gives us the courage to open new locations and scale up existing ones. We are also expanding operations in the Al Shaikh Radwan neighborhood, which has now been running for two months, constantly increasing capacity.

"Al Zawaydah—Increasing Demand
In Al Zawaydah, the team is facing growing demand; about 50 more people show up daily. They currently serve 80% of those who come, and the situation is dire, with many families relying on our meals. Due to theft of aid by forces linked to the Israeli army (as reported by reputable sources like the Financial Times yesterday), we're making every effort to meet the increased needs. We've instructed the crew to hire more hands, acquire additional cooking pots, and aim to serve up to 90% of those seeking food by next week.

Khan Younes—Providing Essential Support

"In Khan Younes, our crew is distributing drinking water each morning, alongside delivering baby clothes for newborns—a small but impactful gesture. A sister charity has hired our team to cook for them in the coming days, providing some financial support. Additionally, Ms. Fatma's class in Khan Younes continues to run strong, offering some semblance of normalcy to the children. It's one of the coolest things we can do for the kids.

"Our drinking water distributions remain a priority, covering four areas throughout the Gaza Strip.

"For those asking how to help, donations are always welcome through this Gofundme community or our website. Every contribution goes directly to sustaining and expanding our work in Gaza for our Palestinian brothers and sisters.

"Thank you for standing with us. Your support keeps hope alive.

"Warm regards,
Hani
Gaza Soup Kitchen Team

"P. S. Down with the regimes that support this genocide, lie about it, and create these criminal conditions."

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily?viewupdates=1&rcid=r01-173221650335-4b67c31ca83d11ef&utm_medium=email&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_email%2B1137-update-supporters-v5b

#NorthGaza #IsraeliWarCrimes #Starvation #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #IsraelHumanRightsViolations
#StopArmingIsrael #WorldWarBibi #BeitLahiya #BaitLahiya #BibiIsAWarCriminal #Genocide #GoFundMe #KhanYounes #Palestine #HumanRightsAreNeverWrong #NorthernGaza #Gaza #AlZawaydah #KamalAdwan #KamalAdwanHospital

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on November 8, 2024 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Good Morning and Happy Friday,

"Thank you for being with us as long as you have. Your support means the world—to my family, to the #Gaza families we’re helping, and to every life you’re touching through this work.

"Right now, the political landscape looks grim, not just in the U.S., but even more so for Gaza. I witness my family and hundreds of thousands of other Palestinians enduring unimaginable suffering daily. Every morning brings news of yet another family lost, their entire homes and bloodlines erased. It’s overwhelming, especially as families are forced out of #NorthernGaza, ethnically cleansed, and pushed toward the south. Some still hold on in the north, hoping for survival amid this devastation. I know you’re likely aware of much of this, but I wanted to set the stage before sharing the latest updates from our efforts on the ground.

"In North Gaza, we reopened the Gaza Soup Kitchen with limited staff over the last three days to answer an urgent call. Hundreds are stranded at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Mashrou’ Bait Lahia, where Dr. Husam Abu Safia—who tragically lost his own son just 10 days ago—continues to care for the wounded and shelter those with nowhere else to go. When he reached out to Chef Mahmoud, asking for food for the 300 people taking refuge there, Chef Mahmoud answered. On the first day, we delivered 200 meals, and our brave volunteer transported the food through risky conditions. The next day, we increased to 300 meals. Chef Faten is also back, helping create flavorful dishes, and every meal served brings a bit of warmth and dignity to the hospital’s residents. Your support empowers us to respond, to say yes in the face of overwhelming need.

"Our medical team in North Gaza has expanded, with an added bed and services to support nearby hospitals. You might remember Fayzah, a little girl who frequents our kitchen—she and her family were recently targeted in a quadcopter attack. While her family recovers, Fayzah still requires urgent care, which is sorely limited in North Gaza. Chef Mahmoud and Nurse Fadia continue their work under constant threat, seeking cover whenever gunfire is nearby, only to return to serving as soon as it stops. Please imagine the difficulty they face each day, doing everything they can in such perilous conditions.

"Yesterday, our team delivered filtered #DrinkingWater to the neighborhood—though only half of what we hoped, as the water was pumped miraculously from the ground using #solar power due to fuel shortages. #Nature is doing more for Gaza than some state-level actors ever will.

"In Al Shaikh Radwan, northwest of Gaza City, our makeshift kitchen serves 200 families daily. My brother Muhammad, whom you know as 'the Mustache,' creatively stretches ingredients, using canned meat to add flavor to pasta and seasoned rice. Despite high prices and scarce resources, he continues to expand, now preparing to add another pot to meet growing demand.

"In Al Zawaydah, at the Gaza Soup Kitchen South, the crowds increase each day. While the team works tirelessly to add more pots, finding supplies has become a daily struggle. Prices skyrocket overnight, sparking strikes and protests against businesses charging exorbitant fees for essentials. We’re also seeing more families arriving, and while we strive to feed everyone, we don’t always succeed.

"Further south in #KhanYounes, our team provides daily breakfasts to 200 children, serving zaatar and cheese pies, along with fresh bread that reaches 50-70 families. Last week, we also distributed blankets to displaced families as winter chills set in, bringing some warmth to those who need it most. Additionally, our team continues to supply clean drinking water to all locations I’ve mentioned, as we remain committed to easing the burden of displacement for as many as we can.

"In Khan Younes, our emergency classroom, led by Ms. Fatma, still operates, offering a sense of normalcy for the children who are able to attend. Sadly, our school in North Gaza was #bombed earlier this week. We were relieved that no one was inside, but seeing the property destroyed despite clear markings was devastating.

"Please take a moment to look at the photos, share our link, tag us, and help spread our stories. Don’t underestimate the impact you have—every person we reach represents countless others still waiting.

"In closing, know that our work has grown more challenging and costly as we take on these urgent needs. We put our lives on the line every day, knowing that we are often the last resource standing between our neighbors and despair. Safety is our priority, but we have come to terms with the reality that dignity is now hard to find, whether in life or in death.

"And a final word, last week BYU my alma mater honored my work with the Gaza Soup Kitchen for our service in Gaza, in my three day work trip to Utah, i sense a change especially among young Republicans who are equally horrified by the genocide in Gaza.

"Thank you for standing with us.
- Hani

"P. S. Like all of you I am tired but you and I must keep going because we can do something while others are watching we are responding together."

#GoFundMe page:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

#Starvation #GazaAid #GazaFundraisers #FreePalestine #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #GoFundMe #IsraelHumanRightsViolations
#StopArmingIsrael #WorldWarBibi #BeitLahiya #BibiIsAWarCriminal #IsraeliWarCrimes #Genocide #HumanRightsAreNeverWrong

An update from #HaniAlmadhoun!

Hot meals 4 Starved Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on November 1, 2024 by Hani Almadhoun, Organizer

"Salam, Hola and hello,

"Greetings from Utah, where my alma mater is located ! I’m here giving talks, lectures, and events, sharing my experiences with #UNRWA USA and the #GazaSoupKitchen in #Gaza. To my surprise, I found a lot of support, empathy, and understanding. The highlight so far has been meeting with Arab students , many of whom felt invisible on campus regarding the issue of Gaza. It was heartwarming for all of us .

"At the Gaza Soup Kitchen’s makeshift location in #NorthGaza , the crew serves meals daily, mainly rice or pasta with canned meat to enhance the flavor. Every day, they provide meals to around 250 families and deliver water before cooking . They even deliver mini pizzas to another shelter to extend support as widely as possible . It’s meaningful to be able to help daily, and we thank you for powering our kitchens. Even in the face of bombs , we remain committed to this mission.

"#ChefMahmoud shared how challenging conditions remain. Just yesterday, 16 #Palestinians were killed on the same block as the soup kitchen️. During this tragic event, the medical point we established sprang into action, with two nurses pitching in to help. Injured community members were brought in for care, but the reality is harsh—most needed a hospital, and the only available one, #KamalAdwan, is critically low on #food, #medicine, and equipment. It was a heartbreaking day .

"We hope to reopen the kitchen soon and bring the staff and community together once more . Thank you for keeping them in your prayers .

"In Al Zawaydah, the kitchen continues to see hundreds of weary, war-torn people. We’re there for them, and they know it . They appreciate the variety of meals, the ingredients we use, and the humility in our service. Every morning, the crew heads to the souk, gathers what they can, and begins cooking—a family kitchen creating one perfect meal, repeated 400 times a day . Today, we served a seasonal local favorite, which was received with gratitude . If you look at the photos, you’ll see the smiles —but also, please don’t miss the desperate need in those crowds. Hundreds of families lining up is not normal . Thank you for standing with us.

"Moving south to #Khan"Younes, we now serve breakfast every morning . Some days, it’s rice pudding, other days mini pizzas, falafel wraps, or anything we can create to brighten the kids’ days . We center our response on the children and ensure they’re always a priority .

"In the same community, Ms. Fatima continues her morning classes ️. Every day, she shows up for her students. Today, they learned the letter 'C,' using toy cars as an example . The students’ excitement and eagerness to learn, even in such conditions, are truly moving .

"Thank you so much for being here and choosing to stand with the Gaza Soup Kitchen . This work is not easy, but your support and partnership make it bearable . You help bring light and hope in the darkest times . Your engagement give us the power to do what we do.

"P.S. Due to the ongoing #genocide and scarcity, we’re paying more for food in the south and spending extra time sourcing ingredients in North Gaza. We hope soon to be able to provide more variety than rice and pasta . And remember UNRWA is the backbone of the humanitarian operation in Gaza, there is no substitute."

Read more, share, and donate:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

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Read about the people #BibiIsAWarCriminal is killing off... Spread the word, donate if you can, and pressure #Biden and other elected officials to stop funding #Israeli #Genocide of the #Palestinian people!

Hot meals 4 Starved Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on October 25th, 2024 by Hani Almadhoun, Organizer

"Please hold my family and neighbors in your highest prayers as they struggle to survive in Mashrouh #BaitLahia, North Gaza. They are surrounded: tanks are just a block away , drones hover above , and airstrikes fall around them . Some neighbors have fled, but others remain, knowing there is truly no safe place in Gaza. They’ve chosen to stay on their own land—familiar, precious ground—so that, if the worst happens, those who care for them can lay them to rest with dignity. Medicine and food are blocked, and #hospitals like #Kamal dwan, where we once delivered meals, have been forced to shut down. This is not complicated; it’s a textbook #genocide.

"Three days ago, Chef Mahmoud was at a health clinic when an Israeli tank rolled in , sending everyone — firefighters, civil defense, everyone — scrambling for cover. It’s constant chaos and injustice without relief, but I know you’ve seen these grim updates. Let me share what we’re still managing to do amid all this.

"In North Gaza’s Al Shaikh Radwan neighborhood, our makeshift kitchen has been running for three weeks, serving 300 families hot meals daily . My brother Mohamed, 'the man with the mustache,' is managing one of the only humanitarian efforts still standing in North Gaza. He prepares pasta or rice and delivers drinking water to shelters every day. As new families arrive each morning, he scales up, adding more to meet the rising demand. No new food has entered Gaza since October, and sourcing supplies has become a relentless struggle.

"In Al Zawaydah in Gaza's middle area, our team continues to cook for displaced families, despite their worry for loved ones in the north. Just yesterday, they made Sumaqya—a hearty dish that brings a bit of comfort. The need in this area is overwhelming, but we show up every day, cooking with love despite the pain, worries, and vulnerability that we all feel deeply .

"In #KhanYounes, our team prepared rice pudding for children—a nostalgic treat that brought some smiles. This shelter also serves as a makeshift classroom, where Ms. Fatema teaches, creating a little glimmer of hope for the kids.

"Two harsh realities: first, with minimal aid allowed in, food prices have soared tenfold , and more families turn to our kitchens in desperation. Second, as the crisis intensifies, money transfer fees into #Gaza climb higher, draining our already stretched resources. Still, we do our best to keep our doors open and reach everyone we can.

"Meanwhile, I’m in the Netherlands, speaking at a conference on the politicization of aid . There are over a thousand changemakers and leaders here, and I’ve raised the issue of our sector’s silence on Gaza. Many avoid addressing it honestly, not wanting to upset certain donors. But I continue to advocate for my family and all #Palestinians, and I hope you do, too.

"Don’t lose hope ; even a small act of #mercy, a bit of #justice, can make a difference.

Hani

"P.S. Please continue to rally around #UNRWA as it strives to deliver aid to North Gaza, where even its own staff are facing starvation."

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on September 21st, 2024 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Hello and salamat,

"A lot is happening, so please take a moment to sit down and, as always, thank you for being here and being invested in everything we do. Please take a moment of silence for all the victims of this #genocide that is now spreading to other countries while this heartless world watches on.

"New data has revealed the scale of aid obstruction, resulting in a drastic fall in aid entering #Gaza. This is driving a #humanitarian disaster, with the entire population of Gaza facing #hunger and #disease, and almost half a million at risk of #starvation.

"As #Israeli military attacks on Gaza intensify, lifesaving food, #medicine, medical supplies, #fuel, and tents have been systematically blocked from entering for almost a year.

"Firstly, I am honored to report that the #GazaSoupKitchen was featured again in an #AJ+ production about #FoodResistance in Palestine. You can see the video link below, where you will see Chef Mahmoud in action. All of you are mentioned there for your solidarity and support. Thank you. Anything we can do to alleviate the Palestinian voices on top of our #humanitarian work, we will do it and do it often.

"Regarding food, we continue to serve food and scale our operations. Remember, our food is home-cooked meals of quality, not large volume food made on the cheap for photos. This is a real issue where well-meaning folks cook things that people are wary of despite their hunger, leading to hospital visits. I salute everyone who serves food made for fellow humans with dignity and love. In #AlZawaydah, we now serve an additional 100 meals weekly on top of the 350 families we lovingly serve daily. These one hundred meals go to a makeshift refugee camp that has reached out for help and you have answered. We may expand that down the road. In Khan Younes, our teams have started doing something cool, delivering meal kits to displaced families. Like 55 families received onions, cooking oil, garlic, and animal protein today. Three days ago, they received a different meal kit with chicken. I know that my family, when they see these items, feel upset because none of these items are available to them. One single onion in North Gaza goes for 25 dollars, can you imagine? #ChefFaten and #ChefMahmoud still serve hot meals daily and continue to see increasing demand, as only 83 percent less aid was allowed into Gaza last month compared to 34% the month before.

"This week, we held two health days in Khan Younes, one dental day, and one for skin diseases in kids. Dr. Ibrahim led both days and helped about a hundred kids in total. This initiative was funded by a few friends in Ashville, North Carolina, under the Sumud Collective. We were happy to remove the hurdles and send a doctor to help in the heart of the displacement where folks don't need to worry about safety and transportation.

"You should also know that the #HealthClinic in North Gaza continues to work daily. Dr. Mohanned, nurses Fadia, and Ahmad serve 50 to 70 patients a day with love and excitement. Nurse Fadia, with her bubbly personality, is everyone's friend. When women need privacy, she meets with them and asks the males to leave the tent. We provide about 24-30 prescriptions a day, all free of charge, and we are happy to provide these as we purchase them. Our weekly budget for the clinic is 1000 dollars, and the total cost to set it up was 10k. The most expensive item was the energy solutions #batteries and #solar panels, which set us back 3500 dollars. The bulk of the cost for the clinic was shouldered by a Palestinian family living between the US and the Gulf. We are happy that you continue to support these ventures to ensure we have the resources we need to meet the needs every day.

"On the water front, we deliver at least four water trucks a day, two in Khan Younes, one in #AlZawaydah, and another in North Gaza. Each water truck costs about 200 dollars and serves 150 families or so based on how many containers each person brings. Another #Palestinian family stepped up to help us hook up a school that is sheltering 80 families to a nearby well. We provided the pipes, water tank, and a pump, which set us back a little over a thousand dollars. When we shared an update on this, another family stepped up and said count us in for two of these projects, so we are looking into making this impact in other places.

"Lastly, on #education, our new school should be opening tomorrow, and with the school starting this Monday, this is important because to the best of our knowledge, no one else has opened an entire school in Gaza where we took over an abandoned souk and turned it into a full school with nine classrooms, restrooms, and an admin office. You should brag about this for eternity because it's so awesome and it solves a big problem for kids, their families, and the community. We have teachers ready and a school principal eager to start teaching the 270 students who will receive official transcripts for their education. It will be the first time the Ministry of Education approves such a program since the genocide started in Gaza. Please pray for their safety. And you want to know something even better? The school only cost us 30k, a very low cost for such an ambitious project. Take a look at where our costs are in the attached recipe (sorry it's in Arabic). We run a classroom in #KhanYounes with Ms. Fatma that meets three times a week, and kids need these steps towards normalcy. Many others are running similar programs on their own, but a formal school like we are putting together has not happened before, and I hope it won't be the last. I share these updates to inspire others to do the same. We have seen more #SoupKitchens open after ours did (a sad fact about the need). Our health clinic inspired others to launch their own clinic, and we hope this school will do the same.

"Thank you for your solidarity,
- Hani

"P.S. Remember, we are now a recognized US charity, and we would love for you to continue to share our updates and amplify our message because you know we both do this for our Palestinian siblings, and more people want to help. Nothing changes our commitment to doing the right thing without delay, and I hope you can join us."

#GoFundMe page:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

Video:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAG63JixelP/?igsh=dDdrbGkzb3QwZTEw

#GazaAid #GazaFundraisers
#Palestinians #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #Starvation #GoFundMe #IsraelHumanRightsViolations

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on September 14th, 2024 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

"Hello and welcome,

"First, I want to express my deep gratitude to each of you. You and I both know the situation in #Gaza, as well as the #WestBank, has been nothing short of a nightmare. Every day, #Palestinians continue to bury their relatives, siblings, children, teachers, doctors, and friends. This reality is not sustainable, nor is it healthy—for anyone's mental well-being, especially for the Palestinians who have endured nearly a year of these relentless conditions. I thank you for staying engaged, for supporting the Palestinians, and for continuing to advocate for justice. Your support is vital.

"With that, I’d like to share some important updates, and I appreciate your patience as we navigate through them.

"I'm thrilled to announce that, starting yesterday, donations to our #GoFundMe page will now go directly into the #GazaSoupKitchen’s bank account, under our official American charity status. This is a significant step forward, eliminating the stress of having donations processed through my personal account. Now, we can continue providing meals, healing wounds, and caring for children through education and other small initiatives—all of which you'll hear more about shortly.

"One of our exciting projects is the creation of a new elementary school in #MashrouBaitLahia. We've transformed an abandoned souk into a functional space, and despite limited resources, we’re 80% done with construction. The biggest challenge right now is acquiring desks, but our team is exploring solutions. The local community is filled with excitement as they see this school taking shape, despite their ongoing struggles for safety. Once completed, the school will have eight classrooms, two bathrooms, and one administrative office. If you'd like to dedicate a classroom in memory or honor of a loved one, please reach out—no promises, but we’ll do our best.

"One of the most rewarding moments was organizing a health seminar outside our clinic, where we distributed diapers and formula to families with small children. About a dozen families attended, and it was incredibly moving to see their gratitude. Many of these families simply cannot afford formula or find it on the shelves. Thank you for making this possible—it restores faith in humanity and strengthens our community. #NurseFadia, who moved from the West Bank to Gaza 15 years ago, recorded a heartfelt video thanking all of you for your support. She highlighted the solidarity felt in helping families during this ongoing genocide. In addition to that event, our #HealthClinic served 70 patients with the help of two nurses and a doctor.

"Ms. Fatma, who runs a classroom for displaced children in #KhanYounes, continues her incredible work. ‍ This week, we sent Dr. Ibrahim, a #dentist, to teach the children about dental care and hygiene. He sent each child home with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap. Check out the photos on our social media for updates!

"In #NorthGaza, we've shifted from distributing food parcels to providing hygiene kits, including essentials like shampoo, wipes, sanitary pads, and body wash. People were growing tired of the canned food in the parcels, and hygiene products are a much-needed change. Once again, you came through for them.

"Our cooking efforts at both locations are in full swing. Hot, nutritious meals are being served daily with smiles and a lot of hard work. The #AlZawaydah location is now a cornerstone of the community in Gaza’s middle area, serving 300 regular families and seeing new faces every day. I’m proud of our team for preparing quality meals—some of them even gourmet—with the limited resources we have. A family of four in Gaza would spend at least $30 to prepare a meal, an unimaginable amount when daily wages in peacetime were just $8 to $10. Yet, our crew continues to rise to the challenge, serving their neighbors and fellow displaced Palestinians with love and dedication.

"#ChefFaten, my older sister, introduces new menu items every month, and the patrons truly appreciate our extra effort. ️ May we never have to live through another nightmare like this again. #ChefMahmoud continues to manage the kitchen and oversee our projects. Once the school is complete, we already have a principal and educator ready to take over its operations.

"All of this work requires funding, creativity, resources, and time. We give our time and talents freely, as we have done throughout this genocide. I ask that you ensure we have the resources to continue supporting our community whenever we see an opportunity. This is our culture, our work ethic, and our humanity. You have helped us carry through unimaginable hardship, and I hope you realize that this moment in history will inspire books, films, and countless stories of resilience. Thank you for standing with us through this devastation.

"Lastly, since we are now a tax-deductible charity in the U.S., you can ask your employer to match your donations. This will always remain a volunteer-run organization because we love serving our community. I have a day job that I love, which allows me to make a big impact for hundreds of thousands of people. Just last week, I had two media appearances to speak about the latest massacre at a school, which killed 18 Palestinians, including six UNRWA staff members.

"Thank you for your continued support and commitment to this cause. Together, we are making a difference. "

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

#GazaAid #GazaFundraisers
#Palestinians #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife #Starvation #GoFundMe #IsraelHumanRightsViolations

Hot meals 4 Starved #Palestinian Kids in #NorthGaza

Update on July 17th, 2024 by #HaniAlmadhoun, Organizer

Hello, Hi, Salam Alykom and welcome everyone, and to those who are new here welcome to our GoFundMe page! You have come to the right place. But first I hope your summers are going as planned.

Thank you for being here.

Please allow me to give you a quick update on our operations in the #GazaStrip. This week, we are aiming to start two new locations for the #GazaSoupKitchen. One additional location will be in Khan Younes, a city south of Gaza. We decided to open this location because a soup kitchen in an area that was heavily bombed was taken out, and, unfortunately, many Palestinians were killed in the massacre. The crew decided to open a pop-up soup kitchen near the massacre site, and they served the first meals yesterday. It was an emotional experience, but we wanted to send a message to the community that we will not leave them alone. The plans came together quickly, and we served 180 families on our first day. The plan is to operate the kitchen in #KhanYounes twice a week, near where we also do daily water deliveries with water trucks.

In the north, we are about to open a new location for the Gaza Soup Kitchen, aiming to serve at least 200 families. This new location will be in the heart of #Jabalia refugee camp. The location was chosen because it is near six #UNRWA schools that have turned into shelters, leaving thousands of families without food. We will start providing hot meals at this new location on Friday with a new team. Stay tuned for an update. We are looking at cooking two dishes: rice and pasta.

In other news, we had a story published on #NPR this week. It came out as a strong profile of the soup kitchen and the operation side. It took about two months to get that story published, and they were quite pleased with the reporting and updates that were shared. There are a few corrections to the story, but overall, the author did a great job profiling our operation and talking about the situation. Here is the link.

https://www.npr.org/2024/07/16/nx-s1-5025629/a-palestinian-american-raises-more-than-1-million-to-feed-his-family-and-others-in-gaza

The soup kitchen in Deir el-Balah continues to turn out meals daily for at least 250 families. The crew works six days a week, and on the seventh day, they partially work to distribute food parcels to the community instead of cooking. This way, those who want to work can, and those who want to rest can rest. They distribute about thirty food parcels every day in that location. These parcels come in handy as the contents can last a small family for a week. This time, they were happy to include fresh eggs, something we have done in Khan Younes but don’t find in the north. I am loving the new rivalry between the two kitchens, where they try to copy each other’s menus and take better pictures to show off their food. This competition serves the community as each team tries to outdo the other in serving meals that they would love to eat themselves in a clean environment.

In the north, with #ChefMahmoud and #ChefFaten, they continue to whip up popular meals. Sometimes it’s rice, sometimes it’s pasta, and other times it’s a new dish like sumakia, a Palestinian dish. They always make sure to complement whatever meal they make with rice, bread, or pasta. They continue to attract regulars as well as new people who have moved nearby. You can see the pictures from today, where they made a new dish: a shawarma roll made from canned meat, seasoned, wrapped in fresh saj bread, grilled, and served with chocolate milk. People loved this dish and asked for it again, so the kitchen was happy to cook it for them. They told me they must have opened no less than 300 cans of meat. Keep in mind that canned meat is available in north Gaza and comes with the aid, which typically includes flour and a few canned goods.

We do #water distribution in three service areas daily now. We also deliver food parcels and helped one stranded family in a dangerous part of town relocate to a relatively safer place. A friend of ours started a GoFundMe page for our water operation in memory of her late father. You can find it if you look for it.

In addition, we hired two dentists who serve in two areas and provide kids with basic dental care and instructions. But our biggest impact, as you know, is at our kitchens. While we expand every day, we look forward to the day we can close down these kitchens because they are no longer needed.

Please know that my family and our neighbors send you their gratitude every day for your compassion and your association with this initiative. You give us confidence to always search for ways to help the folks who have suffered plenty. As I promise you, not a day goes by without the team hearing from me about the importance of kindness and patience but also being able to offer help with a smile. I can tell you that we take pride in our work and we want you to know you and us are making a difference every day in Gaza. For example earlier today I posted a video of a crew member celebrating together after finishing a long day, you may see it here.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/hanifundraiser_after-a-long-day-of-work-the-crew-in-north-activity-7219426243530629120-JmAk?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android

If the staff are happy the regulars will see it.

Hani

P.S. In the interest of transparency, if you would like more details about the cost of our operations, please message me. I would be happy to send you a PDF that gives you extra details about how much everything costs.

GoFundMeLink:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hot-meals-in-gaza-daily

#GazaAid #GazaFundraisers
#Palestinians #CeasefireNow #FoodIsLife #WaterIsLife