Oxfam’s Campaigns and Policy Director Phil Bloomer said today:  

“We are hoping the Disasters and Emergency (DEC) Appeal will be a major success. The DEC aid agencies need all the help they can get in order to rebuild people’s  lives and money is in short supply. Oxfam’s distribution of food parcels to 22,000 people which has been delivered for the past two weeks will have to end on Monday morning as we don’t have the $200,000 we need to continue it. 

“Aid is getting through and going to those that need it most, regardless of political affiliation. Oxfam has a fleet of water trucks buzzing around Gaza delivering water to 50,000 people a day.  This is vital given that 400,000 people have no access to clean running water.   The short term needs are great.

“ITV, Five and  Channel 4 have agreed to run the DEC appeal over the coming days. Douglas Alexander, the Secretary of State for International Development has also called for support to the Appeal.  The emergency appeals will need to generate millions of pounds over the year and all collaboration with the appeal helps.

“It will take many, many months to help people get back on their feet, even if the blockade of Gaza is permanently lifted. And, as always, the generosity of the British people  will help us to reach so many more.” 

To donate to the DEC go to www.dec.org.uk  

ENDS

More from the Oxfam Press Office at http://www.oxfam.org.uk/news