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As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, one Hawkesbury regular is taking action to make a real difference — one family at a time.
Jacki Spinoza who regularly visits our area and is a passionate advocate for social justice and community wellbeing. She's stepped forward to provide direct support to Palestinian families caught in the ongoing conflict, by sending financial contributions to help them buy food and essentials during a time of immense hardship. Jacki has designed T-shirts and sells them at Gaza rallies. These funds have gone towards buying E-Sims, 25kg bags of flour for $500 and other essentials.
A crisis that’s hard to ignore
Since October 2023, the situation in Gaza has deteriorated dramatically. The escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and many more casualties, widespread destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals, and a crippling blockade that has made access to food, water, fuel, and medicine near impossible for the more than two million people living in the enclave.
International aid agencies have warned that famine is looming in some parts of Gaza, and the World Health Organisation has described the territory as being in a state of “unprecedented humanitarian emergency".
Amid global political debates and overwhelming images of devastation, people like Jacki Spinoza are choosing to focus on the most immediate question: how can we help?
A personal, practical response
Rather than wait for governments or institutions to act, Jacki has decided to channel her support directly. Through trusted networks on the ground, she’s been able to send money to local families in Gaza so they can purchase food and basic supplies. While her actions may seem small in the face of a massive crisis, they are no doubt deeply felt by the people receiving them.
Jacki has also been using her platforms to encourage others in the community to learn more about the situation in Gaza and consider supporting humanitarian efforts in any way they can — whether through donations, awareness-raising, or advocacy for peace.
A call for compassion
While political opinions may differ, Jacki believes one thing should be universal: compassion.
Jacki says, “It is of vital importance to get E-Sims out to the Gazans as it is their first line of communication because Israel has destroyed all their local towers and communication systems. The E-Sims operate via satellite system and that is the only way they have been able to stay in contact which means they can stay in touch with loved ones who have been displaced. It’s basically a life line, not just for the civilians, but also the aid workers, medics and all front line personnel helping in this crisis. It’s the only way we can really help them. Staying in contact is the most important thing.”
To learn more about how to support humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza or to connect with local residents who are organising support initiatives, contact Kurrajong Heights Bowling Cub for their upcoming Gaza event details, or reach out to registered charities with established operations in the region.
