The focus was on providing urban garden kits, which families could use to grow vegetables and fruits in their own backyard and animal production kits, which allowed families to take care of their own protein intake. CHF supplemented this distribution with trainings to the families and regular extension visits to ensure that they know how to utilize and benefit from these agricultural kits. So far, 2,000 such kits in various combinations have been supporting Gazans provide nutritious food to their children and themselves. Additionally, in many instances the home gardens and egg-laying units have been so successful that the families have been able to sell the surplus food items, thereby earning money that adds to their meager income.

This CHF activity under PCAP also intentionally targets women headed households, which are the most needy due to the restrictions on women working in a conservative society like Gaza. A case in point is Saniora Al Dirawi, a Gazan woman, who farms for her family. An unlikely sight in Gaza!
Saniora heads a family of nine members. Her husband has been suffering from chronic diabetes, blood pressure, and severe joint dislocations. As a result of this debilitative condition, he is unable to support his family and so his wife has taken charge. “All my children are going to schools and I will do everything possible so they will complete their education,” said Saniora, explaining why she decided to start working. The family receives cash and food assistance from the United Nations agency responsible for refugees and the Ministry of Social Affairs. But this assistance barely allows the family to scrape through.

So Saniora decided to apply to become a partner of the CHF urban garden activity, to utilize the land behind her home and put it to some good use. She took the training offered by CHF and learned new techniques, such as proper spacing, and weeding of crops, cultivation of better varieties of vegetables and the use of a drip irrigation system. She also learned how to make compost though use of organic materials.