With the humanitarian crisis escalating in #Gaza, it is estimated there are over 10,000 people who have had one or both limbs amputated, an estimated half are children; to get people moving again in order to do the simple things in life such as getting to toilets, to food and avoid problems caused by immobility requires crutches, walking sticks and walking aids of all sizes.
The Anglo-Jordanian Society (AJS), a charity based in the #UK that promotes friendship and understanding between the UK and #Jordan, has launched the “Crutches for Kindness” campaign to motivate the public to check their cupboards for unwanted crutches, walking sticks, or walking aids that the NHS will not take back and help support amputees in Gaza.
HRH Princess Sarvath, who is a founder and Joint Patron of the AJS, said “Watching the tragedy unfold in Gaza, where amongst the many displaced and injured, are thousands of amputees, I was reminded that many homes in the UK probably have some perfectly serviceable crutches used just once, but then put away and forgotten. These can well be reused by those unfortunate, many of whom are being rehabilitated in Jordan. This would be a simple way to provide some much-needed support. If the idea of “Kindness Through Crutches” succeeds, it will be but a drop in the ocean of what is needed, but every little thing counts, and I am enormously grateful to everyone who has supported the idea.”
DS Freight have generously agreed to support in the collection and delivery of the walking aids. They will then be transported to Jordan thanks to the generosity of Royal Jordanian Airlines. From there, they will be sent to Gaza through The Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization.
These donations will significantly impact individuals’ lives, providing them with much-needed support and mobility. They will also be distributed to hospitals and clinics, where they can benefit the most vulnerable.
Gareth Sherwood CEO of YMCA Bournemouth says: “This is a simple humanitarian need, 10,000 of our human family need help. We have the means to help with a simple donation that is often sitting gathering dust in our homes and with the AJS and College of Medicine, we have created the means to get the donations where it is needed. So let’s just give what we have and crack on in making the world a better place for everyone.”
The local YMCA drop-off points will be open from Wednesday, 24th July 2024, to Friday, 9th August 2024.
They include:
- The Junction, Station Approach, Broadstone, Poole Dorset BH18 8AX
- Bayside Fitness Club, 54 Willis Way, Fleetsbridge, Poole, Dorset BH15 3SY
- Delta House Hostel, 56 Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH1 2BS
Other YMCA drop off points:
- YMCA Brunel Group (Bristol and Bath branches)
- YMCA Southampton
- YMCA Basingstoke
- YMCA South Devon
If you would like any further information, please contact Gareth Sherwood.
