WESTPORT, Conn. (Dec. 30, 2008) — Save the Children is renewing its call for an immediate end to the bombing in Gaza and rocket attacks against Israel, following reports that a growing number of children are among the more than 300 people killed during three days of air strikes.

The United Nations reported on Dec. 29 that at least 21 children had died during the recent air strikes. 

"Hundreds of thousands of children in Gaza — and many children in Israel as well — are living each day in fear of additional attacks," said Ned Olney, who heads Save the Children's humanitarian response team based in Westport, Connecticut.  

"For the sake of the children, we once again urge all concerned parties to find a solution to the current political impasse that is adversely affecting the lives of nearly every child in Gaza while also endangering the lives of Israeli children in areas subject to possible rocket attacks. We also are seeking full access for humanitarian assistance into Gaza."

Save the Children, which has worked in the Middle East since 1953, has one of the largest humanitarian operations in the region. The agency has prepared hundreds of food parcels to deliver to children and families impacted by the crisis in Gaza but it has delayed delivery until the bombing has stopped and it is safe for staff members to make the deliveries.

Prior to the recent air strikes, the agency warned of a growing humanitarian crisis for children in Gaza. Among the latest findings, based on recent United Nations data:

• Tens of thousands of children in Gaza City are receiving water only once a week for a few hours.

• Health care has deteriorated, and many essential medicines for children are not available. 

• More than half of Gaza's children are in need of food assistance.

• Malnutrition among children is increasing with bread, fruits, vegetables and dairy products in very short supply.

• Hundreds of children have been forced out of school in search of work.

"Save the Children continues to work in Gaza under very difficult circumstances," said Olney. "We are ready to distribute hundreds of food parcels to children affected by the recent air strikes and we also plan to deliver additional medicines and medical supplies to local hospitals. We are targeting the critical health needs of children, including severe malnutrition, and we are working to improve access to clean water in five areas in Gaza. We also have created a number of activities to help keep children in school and safe."

"But so much more needs to be done," Olney added, "and there are very few funds available for us to increase our programs or to launch new ones. That is why we are making this special appeal for help."

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Save the Children (www.savethechildren.org) is the leading, independent organization creating lasting change for children in need in the United States and around the world.  For more than 75 years, Save the Children has worked to improve the lives of children and their families through programs in health, education and economic opportunities, and during times of crisis and conflict. Save the Children USA is a member of the International Save the Children Alliance, a global network of 27 independent Save the Children organizations working to ensure the well-being and protection of children in more than 100 countries.