The University of Waterloo's Orphan Sponsorship Program has partnered with IDRF, one of Canada's top 100 charities, to raise $8,000 in support of clean water and emergency relief for the people of Gaza.

The Crisis

Since October 7, 2023, over 72,000 Palestinians have been confirmed killed — with researchers estimating the true toll, including indirect deaths from disease and malnutrition, exceeds 100,000. The entire population of 2.2 million Gazans requires urgent humanitarian assistance, and as summer temperatures rise, the situation grows more desperate by the day.

Despite a ceasefire that came into effect on October 10, 2025, the humanitarian emergency remains severe. Only a fraction of committed aid has been allowed entry, water infrastructure lies in ruins, and families now face an entirely new threat: brutal summer heat with virtually no access to clean water.

Why Water Is the Most Urgent Need Right Now

Gaza's water and sanitation systems have been devastated by the conflict. With summer temperatures soaring, the consequences are life-threatening — particularly for children, the elderly, and pregnant women who are most vulnerable to dehydration and waterborne illness.

Without clean water, families cannot drink, cook, or maintain basic hygiene. Contaminated water is already fuelling the spread of disease. Every day without access to safe water is a day lives are at risk.

How IDRF Is Helping

IDRF is working on the ground with trusted local partners to deliver urgent relief, with a focus on:

Clean, safe drinking water

Water purification and sanitation support

Emergency food parcels

Medical and hygiene essentials

Support for children and displaced families

Your donation Can Save Lives

A lack of clean water in the summer heat is not just a hardship. It is a life-or-death emergency. Your support ensures that critical assistance reaches the families who need it most, before it is too late.

Thank you for standing with the people of Gaza. Your generosity delivers clean water, dignity, and hope amid the devastation.

Donations of $10.00 CAD or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt from IDRF.