Prayer for the Health of His Holiness Pope Francis From Caritas Jerusalem
February 20, 2025
Caritas Jerusalem remains at the forefront of the fight to protect children in Gaza from polio, as we proudly participated in the third phase of the critical polio vaccination campaign. This phase, which took place in February 2025, was a testament to the resilience and dedication of Caritas Jerusalem’s team, as well as our ongoing collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Ministry of Health (MOH), and other vital partners.
The third phase of the polio vaccination campaign across Gaza was coordinated by the Ministry of Health in close partnership with WHO, UNICEF, and other key stakeholders. The goal was clear: to vaccinate every child under the age of 10 to prevent the spread of the poliovirus. In total, nearly 603,000 children were vaccinated throughout Gaza—an extraordinary achievement, with over 586,000 children already receiving the vaccine by February 2025, reaching 99% of the target population.
At Caritas Jerusalem’s medical point in Gaza City, we welcomed 1,744 children as part of this crucial effort. Our medical staff worked tirelessly to administer the vaccines, despite the ongoing challenges and risks posed by the region’s volatile circumstances.
Since the onset of the polio vaccination campaign, Caritas Jerusalem has been instrumental in supporting the WHO and the Ministry of Health. Our medical facilities have provided a safe space for children to receive the vaccine, and our dedicated teams have ensured that these interventions are conducted swiftly and effectively. Our facilities in Gaza City have served as a critical hub for this campaign, helping to ensure that as many children as possible are protected from the dangers of polio.
Despite the numerous obstacles posed by the challenging situation on the ground, Caritas Jerusalem remains committed to offering both immediate healthcare and long-term support to the people of Gaza. The risk of polio is high, particularly in areas where healthcare access is limited, and our work has been essential in bridging that gap.
The ongoing conflict and harsh conditions in Gaza have made healthcare provision an even more significant challenge. Recently, the tragic news of six newborns who lost their lives due to the extreme cold in Gaza City and Khan Younis reminded us all of the profound vulnerability that many in Gaza face every day. However, despite these heartbreaking realities, Caritas Jerusalem continues to stand firm in its mission, providing life-saving services to those in need.
As Mr. Anton Asfar, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem, has emphasized, "Our work is about more than just providing vaccines. It's about offering hope, resilience, and ensuring that the children of Gaza have the chance to grow up in a healthier, safer environment. We are committed to continuing this vital work, no matter the challenges."
As we move forward into the future, Caritas Jerusalem remains steadfast in our commitment to the health and well-being of the people of Gaza. The polio vaccination campaign is not just a response to an immediate threat; it is part of our long-term commitment to healthcare in Gaza. Our partnership with the WHO, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Health ensures that we are doing everything possible to safeguard the lives of Gaza’s children.
Despite the challenges we face, we will continue to stand alongside the people of Gaza, providing care, compassion, and a much-needed sense of stability in these uncertain times. Our team in Gaza remains dedicated to ensuring that no child is left behind, and we will continue to do all we can to protect their future.
As we continue our work in Gaza, we call on the international community to support efforts like these. Together, we can ensure that the children of Gaza receive not only the care they need today, but also the promise of a brighter, healthier future tomorrow.
