Evacuated SOS Children’s Villages in Gaza destroyed
After the recent ceasefire made travel possible, SOS Children’s Villages staff in Gaza returned to the SOS Village in Rafah. Unfortunately, the SOS Children’s Village in Rafah has been destroyed.
“We will need to rebuild the village from scratch. Unfortunately, the children and staff who remain in Gaza will likely have to live in temporary shelters for a long time,” said Reem Alreqeb, Gaza Program Director for SOS Children's Villages Palestine.
Lost to war
SOS Children’s Villages in Rafah, founded in 2000, was evacuated in May 2024 as escalating violence made it increasingly unsafe. The SOS Children’s Village was officially recognized as a humanitarian center, but fighting took place within the immediate surroundings of it.
Reflecting on the decision to leave, Ms. Alreqeb stated:
“Had we not left, we probably would have all been killed. This is yet another tragic reminder that innocent children bear the highest cost of war.”
Children in Gaza long to see their parents
The 33 children currently living in the SOS Children’s Villages tent encampment in Khan Younis were found unaccompanied and separated from their parents. In this temporary setting, they receive essential care, including shelter, nutritious meals, and medical support.
Although formal schooling is unavailable, staff introduced teaching sessions to provide structure and learning opportunities. Psychological support remains a priority, with activities designed to help the children process their emotions and gather information about their families in hopes of reuniting with them.
“Sadly, their greatest struggle is the longing to see their parents,” said a staff member.
They had hoped to find their memories
For Ms. Alreqeb and the staff who recently returned to Rafah, the level of destruction was devastating. Despite the loss, SOS Children’s Villages remains committed to providing safety, care, and hope to Gaza’s children.