Singapore Red Cross Amplifies Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Following Ceasefire
Singapore,20 January 2025 – In the wake of the ceasefire that took effect on Sunday,19 january 2025,the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) has announced a meaningful escalation in its humanitarian efforts. The organization is committing SGD 300,000 worth of relief supplies to support the urgent needs of communities affected by the crisis in Gaza. This latest tranche of aid includes food parcels, hygiene kits, and medical supplies, addressing critical shortages faced by civilians.
“Singapore Red Cross is glad that the ceasefire is now in place, and this presents a crucial opportunity to scale up on humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians affected by the crisis. Our focus remains on providing swift, life-saving support—ensuring that those in need of urgent medical care, psychological support, and essential relief will recieve the help they need,” said Mr. Benjamin William, Secretary General/CEO of the Singapore Red Cross.
The SRC will continue to collaborate with its Red Cross Red crescent (RCRC) Movement partners, including the Egyptian Red Crescent society (ERCS), to ensure the efficient distribution of aid. An operations coordinator will be deployed to work closely with ground partners, coordinating the latest tranche of contributions.
Since the conflict began on 7 October 2023, the SRC has been actively working with the ERCS to procure and deliver essential relief supplies through the land borders in Rafah. during the ceasefire, the ERCS will intensify aid delivery into Gaza, coordinating closely with state authorities. Aid stockpiled near the Rafah crossing is ready for immediate dispatch once the borders reopen, including the daily delivery of 600 truckloads of aid and fuel during the first phase of the ceasefire.
To date, the SRC has disbursed close to SGD 1 million worth of relief aid through the ERCS. This includes the deployment of an operations coordinator and an 8-person team to assist with relief operations in 2024. The SRC remains committed to monitoring the situation in Gaza and adjusting its response to meet the evolving needs of affected communities. Funds raised from the public will directly support displaced Palestinian communities in Gaza.
Key Highlights of SRC’s Humanitarian Efforts
Table of Contents
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Latest Tranche | SGD 300,000 worth of food parcels, hygiene kits, and medical supplies |
| Total Aid Disbursed | Close to SGD 1 million since October 2023 |
| Partnerships | Collaboration with ERCS and RCRC Movement partners |
| ceasefire Aid Delivery| 600 truckloads of aid and fuel daily during the first phase of the ceasefire|
| ground Support | Deployment of an operations coordinator and 8-person team in 2024 |
The Singapore Red Cross’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid underscores the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis. As the ceasefire provides a window of opportunity, the SRC’s efforts aim to bring immediate relief and hope to those most affected by the conflict.
Singapore Red Cross Amplifies Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Following Ceasefire
Singapore, 20 January 2025 – In teh wake of the ceasefire that took effect on Sunday, 19 January 2025, the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) has announced a meaningful escalation in it’s humanitarian efforts. The organization is committing SGD 300,000 worth of relief supplies, including food parcels, hygiene kits, and medical supplies, to support the urgent needs of communities affected by the crisis in Gaza. To delve deeper into these efforts, we spoke with Dr. Sarah Lim, a humanitarian aid expert and advisor to the SRC, to understand the scope and impact of these initiatives.
Scaling Up Aid During the Ceasefire
Senior Editor: Dr. Lim,thank you for joining us. The SRC has announced a significant increase in aid delivery during the ceasefire. Can you elaborate on how this opportunity is being utilized?
Dr. Sarah Lim: Thank you for having me. The ceasefire has provided a critical window to scale up humanitarian efforts.We’re focusing on delivering 600 truckloads of aid and fuel daily during this first phase. This includes essential items like food, water, medical supplies, and hygiene kits.The goal is to address immediate needs while ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most efficiently.
Collaboration with International Partners
Senior Editor: The SRC has emphasized its collaboration with the Egyptian Red Crescent Society (ERCS) and other Red Cross Red crescent (RCRC) Movement partners. How crucial are these partnerships in ensuring aid reaches Gaza?
Dr. Sarah Lim: partnerships are absolutely vital. The ERCS, for instance, plays a key role in facilitating the movement of aid through the Rafah border. their local expertise and infrastructure enable us to navigate logistical challenges effectively. Additionally, working with RCRC Movement partners ensures a coordinated response, maximizing the impact of our efforts.
Ground Support and Operations
Senior Editor: The SRC has deployed an operations coordinator and an 8-person team to assist with relief operations. What role do these teams play on the ground?
Dr.Sarah Lim: Our ground teams are the backbone of our operations. the operations coordinator oversees the distribution process, ensuring that aid is delivered efficiently and transparently.The 8-person team works closely with local partners to assess needs,monitor distributions,and provide on-the-ground support. Their presence is critical in adapting our response to the evolving situation.
Long-Term Commitment and public Support
Senior Editor: The SRC has disbursed close to SGD 1 million in aid since October 2023.How does public support factor into these efforts, and what are the long-term goals?
Dr. Sarah lim: Public support has been instrumental in enabling us to scale up our efforts. Funds raised from the public directly support displaced communities in Gaza,providing them with essential resources and hope. In the long term, we aim to not only address immediate needs but also support recovery and resilience-building efforts. This includes providing psychological support and helping communities rebuild their lives.
looking Ahead
Senior Editor: what message would you like to share with our readers about the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis?
Dr. Sarah Lim: Crises like the one in Gaza remind us of the power of collective action. International solidarity is not just about providing aid; it’s about standing together to uphold human dignity and hope. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. I encourage everyone to support humanitarian efforts, whether through donations, advocacy, or simply spreading awareness.
For more updates on the Singapore Red Cross’s humanitarian efforts, visit www.redcross.sg.
