WAM Quds, 14th Aug. 2012 (WAM) - The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, in co-operation with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), has generously contributed towards a "Feed the Fasting" Ramadan project in the Gaza Strip.

The initiative will enable UNRWA in Gaza to provide hot, protein-rich Iftar dinners (the traditional meal with which Muslims break the daily fast during Ramadan) for 28,386 poor persons during the Holy Month, targeting those who would otherwise be unable to access such meals during Ramadan.

Due to hikes in food prices, shrinking incomes and high unemployment, access to food has become a serious concern for a growing section of the population of the Gaza Strip. Sixty-eight per cent of the refugee population is receiving food from UNRWA, while 62 per cent of the total Gaza population is dependent on international agencies for at least some of its food.

The hot meals will be distributed to the most vulnerable by 19 community-based organisations, using a coupon system to ensure the whole family benefits, and not just those who are able to travel to the organisation.

Peter Ford, representative of UNRWA's Commissioner-General, said: "The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation has shown itself once again to be a true supporter of the Palestine refugees in Gaza, coming forward to assist them during this special month. UNRWA and Palestine refugees are very grateful to the Foundation, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our partnership for the benefit of refugees in the region." The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation is one of UNRWA's most consistent donors in the Gulf. In addition to regular food support for the neediest refugees in the West Bank and Gaza, the Foundation was also the first to adopt a school under the Agency's "Adopt-a-School Initiative". In 2010, the Foundation adopted Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Elementary Boys '&' Co-ed School in Gaza, and has recently renewed its sponsorship for the scholastic year 2012/2013.

WAM/TF