Computers for Gaza
I am considering setting up a fundraiser through Pray4Peace.org to collect donations to buy computers and books for Palestinian schools in Gaza. I feel this could be an effective way to help directly in this their critical time.
Pray4Peace.org managed to collect about 1000 Le ($175), through Sharm Relief for each breadwinner's family that perished in the Sharm attacks so far. This is only in the first payoff and though it may not seem like much to you it certainly goes a long way (complete governmental compensation is about $840).
Inspired by UNRWA's actions as a way to offer relief by direct means and provide alternatives to violence, my fellow directors and I are entertaining this idea of computers and books for Palestinian schools as Pray4Peace.org's next endeavor and we would like your feedback. Also if you are interested in helping let us know.
Karim Elsahy
I'm willing to donate to your cause. (Comment this)
Whether it is making shoes, furniture, rugs; or growing vegetables or raising chickens.
Without jobs, education is almost wasted. With jobs, the desire for education, to be more successful, is even stronger. 50 years of mostly wasted aid since WW II should show this. Look at Grameen bank and micro-loans.
Selling computers, and servicing them for businesses, is likely a better use of Win 98 quality 5 year old computers. (Comment this)
For example, good science or history books for school teachers would improve their teaching. I would not support purchase of religious books, and I think ordinary class textbooks should be supplied by the government (possibly from an aid budget).
Both computers and books could educate the teachers. (Comment this)
$1.3 with 9 zeros after it can buy one hell of a truckload full of computers, books, greenhouses, medicine, schools, clothes, or even food.
You name it, 1.3 billion can buy it. (Comment this)
If you are interested email me so I can get you on a list and email you back once we get something more concrete.
Adriane - I am just trying to be productive, once you get into who did what when nothing gets done. We are just going to forge ahead with what little is in our hands to do and hope the politicians are competent. (Comment this)