Campaign Status
Campaign Completed: The campaign has achieved successful funding, raising $5,000 via the LaunchGood crowdfunding platform and a large offline donation from a Palestinian businessman.
Summary
The campaign aims to provide a library that can provide service to 20,000 people.
Challenge
The Wadi Al-Jouz neighborhood in East Jerusalem is among one of the most vulnerable and densely populated Palestinian communities. It is home to 20,000 people, located in a restricted area, where the education system is underdeveloped. Children in the community lack access to quality education and a safe school environment because of policies and measures that prevent the expansion and upgrading of school facilities. This means that the schools in the Wadi Al-Jouz neighborhood are also often overcrowded. Coming from families with fewer means and poor socioeconomic conditions, the children are isolated and disconnected from the other parts of the city, with little opportunity to travel.
Beyond that, the community faces an even greater challenge – an identity crisis. Living in a Palestinian community within Israeli municipal boundaries, children can speak Arabic at home and experience their Palestinian culture, but once they leave their houses, they do not have many possibilities for community meet-ups.
Solution
The Wadi Al-Joz Charitable Society, comprised of dedicated local volunteers, has initiated the "Al-Wadi Library" project. This endeavor seeks to establish a library hall within its community center, providing access to a diverse collection of regional and international literature, along with various programs suitable for all age groups. We anticipate that the library will strengthen community bonds and offer a secure and pleasant space for its members.
Furthermore, the library will contribute to its mission by supplying books and craft materials for children. Additionally, various activities, including drama and art classes, movie screenings, and handicrafts, will be offered to engage and enrich the experiences of children.
