ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 

We extend our sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful implementation and evaluation of the Hot Meals Project in Gaza. Special thanks go to LIFE for their generous donation, the field staff, shelter coordinators, beneficiaries, and community leaders whose support made this operation possible under extremely challenging circumstances. We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of our Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team, whose dedication ensured accurate data collection and analysis. Lastly, we are grateful for the generous support of our donors and partners who made this emergency response feasible.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report presents the final evaluation of the Hot Meals Project conducted in Gaza in June 2025. The project aimed to provide immediate food relief to populations affected by extreme food insecurity due to ongoing conflict and resource shortages. Over a 30-day period, 500 hot meals were distributed daily to 500 families (approximately 3,500 individuals), with a special focus on children, the elderly, and displaced persons.

Evaluation findings demonstrate that the project successfully met its objectives, with 100% of surveyed beneficiaries confirming that the hot meals were their main source of nutrition and helped prevent starvation. Quantitative data show a significant reduction in acute food insecurity, while qualitative data highlight improved nutritional well-being, particularly among children and elderly beneficiaries. Operational challenges were managed effectively despite the volatile security environment.

The Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) survey conducted at the end of the project further validated these results. 90% of respondents rated the quality of meals as very good, and 100% confirmed daily delivery without interruption. The meals were widely viewed as nutritious, hot, and culturally appropriate, contributing to high levels of satisfaction. Beneficiaries also reported visible improvements in children’s energy and mood (83%) and reduced fatigue among elderly family members (76%). Additionally, 100% of respondents expressed trust in the distribution team, citing respectful treatment and fair delivery practices.

Key lessons learned emphasize the importance of early procurement, strong local partnerships, and adaptable implementation strategies in volatile contexts. The success of this intervention underscores the critical role of hot meal distributions in addressing acute food insecurity while preserving dignity among affected populations.

1.INTRODUCTION

1.1  Hot Meals Project in Gaza

 

In response to the acute humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and a stringent blockade, the project aims to deliver immediate relief and establish sustainable infrastructure. The initiative encompasses the daily distribution of 500 meals over 30 days period during June project.

As of May 19, 2025, the food situation in Gaza has reached a critical state, with the entire population facing acute food insecurity and a significant portion experiencing catastrophic hunger.

Humanitarian Crisis Overview

Blockade and Aid Restrictions: Since March 2, 2025, Israel imposed a total blockade on Gaza, halting all humanitarian aid and commercial supplies. This has led to severe shortages of essential items, including food, fuel, and medical supplies.

 

Acute Food Insecurity: According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), the entire population of Gaza is experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity. Approximately 470,000 people (22% of the population) are facing catastrophic conditions (IPC Phase 5), with the rest in emergency or crisis levels .

Child Malnutrition: The blockade has severely impacted children, with reports indicating that 66,000 children are suffering from severe malnutrition.

 Recent Developments

Limited Aid Resumption: Under international pressure, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the resumption of minimal humanitarian aid, including baby food, flour, and medical supplies. However, as of today, no aid has entered Gaza, and aid organizations have criticized the proposed distribution system as inadequate .

Infrastructure Destruction: The ongoing conflict has destroyed significant portions of Gaza’s agricultural infrastructure, including greenhouses and tree crops, further exacerbating food shortages.

The Hot Meals Project was launched in response to the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where prolonged conflict has devastated infrastructure and access to basic necessities. With extreme food insecurity reaching critical levels, this emergency project provided hot, nutritious meals to families lacking access to food or cooking facilities.

 

This project supports to provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza, who are facing extreme conditions due to ongoing conflict and severe resource shortages. The operation focuses on food as a critical need.

The primary activity of the operation includes:

• Meal Distribution: The distribution of 500 meals daily to those in urgent need for 30 days.

Link to the 17 SDGs:

SDG 1: No Poverty: Alleviating the economic burden on struggling families. SDG 2: Zero Hunger: The Projects achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture and ensure access to safe, nutritious food; end malnutrition; increase agricultural productivity; promote sustainable food systems.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: By Providing balanced meals to improve health conditions.

The project aligns with key national, regional, and local sectorial policies, ensuring its relevance and contribution to broader development goals. At the national level, the project supports Gaza’s National Food Security Strategies aimed at addressing hunger and improving food distribution systems across Gaza. On a regional scale, the project contributes to the Arab Strategy for Sustainable Development by enhancing food security in the Middle East. At the local level. The project’s objectives complement these existing policies and contribute to achieving both short-term relief and long- term sustainability

1.1.1  Project Goal:

 

Reduction in acute food insecurity among targeted population

1.1.2  Project Objectives:

Provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza, who are facing extreme conditions due to ongoing conflict and severe resource shortages.

The objective was planned to be achieved by:

1.      500 families receive daily hot meals for 30 days

2. Improved nutritional status of children and elderly

The project was implemented in North Gaza shelters were families from Jabalia, Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahia are displaced

1.2  Purpose and Objectives of Final Evaluation

 

The purpose of this final evaluation is to assess the project’s relevance, effectiveness,

and impact in reducing acute food insecurity. It aims to:

• Verify achievement of log frame outputs and
• Analyze beneficiary
• Identify operational strengths and
• Provide lessons learned and recommendations for future

 

2.  METHODOLOGY

2.1   Preparation

 

Evaluation tools, including questionnaires and interview guides, were developed based on the project’s logframe and M&E plan. Staff training was conducted to ensure consistency in data collection.

2.2  Population of Study

 

The study population included all 500 beneficiary families receiving daily hot meals, with special focus groups held with children, elderly individuals, and caregivers.

2.3  Sample Selection

 

A stratified random sampling approach was used. 20% of the beneficiary households (100 families) were selected for surveys, and key informant interviews were conducted with 5 shelter administrators and 5 field workers.

2.4  Data Collection

 

Data was collected through:

• Structured interviews with
• Post-distribution monitoring (PDM)
• Field
• Daily distribution
• Reports from shelter

 

2.5  Data Editing and Analysis

Quantitative data were processed using statistical software (Excel). Qualitative responses were thematically coded and analyzed manually for patterns related to food security and project impact.

2.6  Participants in the Participants in the Final Evaluation

 

• Project M&E staff
• Field coordinators and distribution teams
• Shelter administrators
• Beneficiary households

3.  FINDINGS

3.1  Preliminary Results:

 

The preliminary results of the final evaluation indicate that the Hot Meals Project in Gaza successfully achieved its core objectives of alleviating acute food insecurity among displaced families during June 2025.

The Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) survey was conducted with 100 households across displacement shelters in Beit Lahia, Jabalia, and Beit Hanoun during the final days of the Hot Meals Project in June 2025. The survey aimed to assess the relevance, quality, and impact of the meal distributions on beneficiary households, particularly those living in extreme humanitarian conditions. Key findings include:

 

 

1-      Household Profile

 

• Average household size: 6–7 members
• 91% of households included children under 12
• 64% had at least one elderly member
• 38% were female-headed households

2-      Meal Access and Dependency

 

• 100% relied on the hot meals as their only regular food source
• 89% had no access to kitchens, gas, or raw food
• One meal per person per day was the norm

 

3-      Meal Quality and Cultural Relevance

 

• 90% rated meal quality as very good, 10% as good
• 100% confirmed the meals were hot at delivery
• 94% said the meals were culturally appropriate
• 88% of children and 82% of elderly participants liked and accepted the meals

4-      Timeliness and Distribution Experience

 

• 100% confirmed daily delivery without interruption
• 97% said meals arrived on time
• 100% felt respected by staff and experienced no discrimination
• 100% trusted the distribution team and felt the process was fair

5-      Food Security and Well-being

 

• 94% reported a visible reduction in hunger
• 83% observed improved mood and energy in children
• 76% of elderly respondents reported reduced fatigue and improved health
• 62% of elderly said they could take their medication more regularly

These results strongly suggest that the intervention was not only timely and relevant but also delivered measurable improvements in food access and nutritional well- being among the most affected populations in northern Gaza.

3.2  Quantitative Findings

 

• Key Findings Against Key M&E Indicators

 

Indicator	Target	Achieved	Source
Beneficiaries reporting reduced food insecurity	≥ 90%	94%	Interviews
Beneficiaries living in extreme conditions	1	100%	PDM Surveys
Meals delivered daily	500	50000%	Distribution Logs

 

Meals delivered over 30 days	15000	%	Field Reports
Meals provided to children/elderly	≥ 60% of total	67%	Monitoring Reports

 

 

 

3.3  Qualitative Findings

 

 

The qualitative data collected through interviews, PDM, and field reports reveal the human impact and broader context of the intervention. The voices of beneficiaries and field staff highlight the emotional, psychological, and nutritional significance of the Hot Meals Project.

3.3.1    Dependence on the Project for Survival

 

Nearly all interviewed families reported that the hot meals were their only consistent source of food during the 30-day period. Many families had no access to cooking facilities or raw food due to displacement and destruction of homes.

“We have no kitchen, no gas, and no money. These meals were not just food—they were survival for my children.” .Mother, Shelter in Beit Hanoun

3.3.2. Positive Effects on Children’s Well-being

 

Caregivers observed noticeable changes in children’s behavior and health during the meal distribution period. Many reported improved energy, reduced signs of distress, and more active participation in daily activities.

“Before the meals started, my children were weak and crying all the time from hunger.

After a few days, they were laughing, playing again.” Father of five, Jabalia Shelter.

 

“My son was getting sick from eating leftovers or nothing at all. The meals brought back his strength.” .Female caregiver, Beit Lahia

3.3.3 Improved Health and Mood Among the Elderly

 

Elderly beneficiaries, often among the most nutritionally vulnerable, reported feeling stronger, more alert, and less fatigued during the project.

 

“The food helped me take my medicine properly. Without meals, I felt dizzy all the

time.”. Elderly man, age 72

“I haven’t eaten a warm meal in months before this. It brought me comfort I had forgotten.” .Elderly woman, Beit Hanoun

• Respectful and Dignified Treatment

 

Field teams were praised for their respectful, organized, and caring behavior during distributions. This contributed to a sense of dignity among beneficiaries, many of whom were experiencing extreme hardship and displacement.

 

“They did not treat us like beggars. They came every day, smiled, and asked if we

needed anything else.”. Displaced woman, North Gaza

• Community Trust and Safety

 

Participants expressed high trust in the implementing team, citing their consistent presence, transparency, and fairness in distribution. There were no reported cases of discrimination, tension, or exclusion.

“Everyone received food equally. There was no fighting. We trusted the teams to come every day, and they did.”. Shelter administrator

• Feedback on Meal Quality and Cultural Relevance

 

Many beneficiaries noted that the meals were nutritious, warm, and culturally appropriate. Most meals included rice, lentils and vegetables which were described as satisfying and familiar.

“The meals reminded us of what we used to cook at home—simple but full of care.”.

Displaced grandmother, Jabalia

“Even the children liked the food. It wasn’t just edible—it was tasty and healthy.”

Youth volunteer and caregiver

 

“This was the only meal we had each day. Without it, we would have gone hungry,” A

mother in Beit Lahia shelter.

 

4.  Challenges:

• Security Risks: Ongoing military activity disrupted supply chains briefly on two occasions.
• Logistical Delays: Fuel shortages affected transportation at the beginning of the project, resolved by local partnerships.

 

5.  RECOMMENDATIONS

• Establish contingency stock of fuel and food supplies in anticipation of supply chain disruptions through maintaining the existing annual contracts with the supplier who can supply all needed materials.
• Continue partnerships with local shelters and vendors to ensure swift
• Scale up the program in future emergency responses to reach 1,000 families and to    extend    meal    provision    beyond    30

6.  Lessons Learned

• Early beneficiary targeting and community involvement ensures smoother
• Hot meals are an effective immediate response tool in settings with no cooking
• Daily monitoring improves accountability and adaptability in rapidly changing

7.  Conclusion:

The Hot Meals Project in Gaza successfully addressed the immediate food needs of highly vulnerable populations affected by ongoing conflict, displacement, and severe resource scarcity. Over a 30-day period, the project consistently delivered 500 hot meals daily to 500 families, reaching an estimated 3,500 individuals, with a strong focus on children, the elderly, and displaced persons.

 

Evaluation findings confirm that the project met its stated objectives and contributed meaningfully to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Beneficiaries overwhelmingly reported a reduction in food insecurity, improved nutritional status, and a restored sense of dignity during an exceptionally difficult time.

 

Despite operating in a highly volatile and resource constrained environment, the project’s timely planning, community-based targeting, and adaptive implementation approach ensured consistent delivery and positive impact. Collaboration with shelter administrations, local vendors, and community volunteers played a critical role in overcoming logistical and security challenges.

This intervention highlights the effectiveness of targeted, short-term food relief in preventing starvation and preserving human dignity. The experience also offers key lessons for scaling similar interventions, reinforcing the value of agility, local partnerships, and responsive monitoring in humanitarian operations.

The Hot Meals Project stands as a model for rapid food assistance in crisis contexts and underscores the critical importance of continuing and expanding humanitarian support in Gaza.

8.  ANNEXES

Annex 1: Logframe Matrix

Hierarchy of Objectives	Indicators	Means of Verification	Assumptions
Goal: Reduction in acute food insecurity among targeted population
Goal:			Security situation allowes for that Access to targeted areas is maintained
Reduction in acute food insecurity among targeted population	At least 90% of beneficiaries confirme that their food insecurity was reduced	Interviews/ questionaires
Purpose/Outcome: Provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza, who are facing extreme conditions due to ongoing conflict and severe resource shortages.
Purpose/Outcome:
Provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza, who are facing extreme conditions due to ongoing conflict and severe resource shortages.	100 % of the beneficiaries are from facing extreme conditions 100 % of the beneficiaries confirm that hot meals were immediate relief and prevented starvation	Beneficiaries check list Shelters Reports	Security situation allowes for that Access to targeted areas is maintained
Output 1.1: 500 families receive daily hot meals for 30 days
Output 1.1:	Shelters are selected and beneficiaries are determined and completed by May 27, 2025	Project Reports	Security situation allowes for that Access to targeted areas is maintained
500 families receive daily hot meals for 30 days	Procurement of food supplies completed by May 27, 2025	Field monitoring visits
	500 hot meals / day are delivered to 500 families.
Output 1.2: Improved nutritional status of children and elderly
Output 1.2:
Improved nutritional status of children and elderly	Beneficiaries confirms improvement in their nutritional status	Field monitoring visits Interviews	Security situation allowes for that Access to targeted areas is maintained

 

Annex 2: M&E Plan

Indicators	Indicator definition	Data Source & Methodology	Frequency of data collection	Who is responsible	How will information be used and by whom
Goal: Reduction in acute food insecurity among targeted population
At least 90% of beneficiaries confirme that their food insecurity was reduced	The beneficiaries are food secure when they have food available with good quantity and quality	Interviews/ questionaires	Weekly	Coordinator	For Evaluation
				Field staff
				M&E staff
Purpose/Outcome: Provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza, who are facing extreme conditions due to ongoing conflict and severe resource shortages.
100 % of the beneficiaries are from facing extreme conditions 100 % of the beneficiaries confirm that hot meals were immediate relief and prevented starvation	Extreme conditions means living in a shelter with shortage or unavilability of food	Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) Survey   Distribution Summary Report Template	Weekly	Coordinator Field Staff M&E staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities
	Relief and starving prevention means that the hotmeal the only meal they have during the day.	Beneficiaries check list Shelters Reports		Field staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities
Output 1.1: 500 families receive daily hot meals for 30 days
Shelters are selected and beneficiaries are determined and completed by May 27, 2025	Select shelters and beneficiaries according to the criteria	Shelter administrations staff report	Weekly	Coordinator Field staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities
Procurement of food supplies completed by May 27, 2025	Select vendors based on procurement process	Field staff daily reports	Initial Phase	Coordinator Field staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities
500 hot meals / day are delivered to 500 families.	500 hot meals made from lentil, pasta and soup	Field staff daily reports Daily Meal Distribution Log	Daily	Coordinator Field staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities
Output 1.2: Improved nutritional status of children and elderly
Improved nutritional status of children and elderly	Select shelters and beneficiaries according to the criteria	Shelter administrations staff report	Weekly	Coordinator Field staff	Project staff and M&E staff to reflect on evaluation findings to review and improve Project activities

 

Annex 3: Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) Survey Questionnaire

 

Project Name: Hot Meals Project in Gaza

Implementing Organization: Al-Amal Training Society for Women, Child and Handicapped

Survey Dates: June 28–30, 2025 Enumerator Name:                             Shelter Location:                           

Respondent Name (optional):                             Respondent Role: Household Head / Caregiver / Elderly

 

Section A: Household Information

 

1. Total number of people in your household:
2. Number of children under 12 years old:
3. Number of elderly persons (60+):
4. Is this a female-headed household? ☐ Yes ☐ No
5. What is your current shelter type?
   • Tent ☐ Public school ☐ Damaged house ☐ Other (please specify):

Section B: Access and Dependency

 

6. Was the hot meal your household’s only regular source of food during the

past 30 days?

• Yes ☐ No

7. Do you have access to any of the following (check all that apply):
   • Kitchen ☐ Gas ☐ Food stocks ☐ None
8. On average, how many hot meals per day did your family receive from the project?

Section C: Meal Quality and Cultural Appropriateness

 

9. How would you rate the quality of the food provided?
   • Very good ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor
10. Were the meals hot when delivered?
    • Yes ☐ No
11. Did the meals meet your family’s cultural and dietary preferences?
    • Yes ☐ No
12. Did your children like the meals?
    • Yes ☐ No ☐ Not applicable

 

13. Did the elderly in your household express satisfaction with the meals?
    • Yes ☐ No ☐ Not applicable

Section D: Distribution and Timeliness

 

14. Were the meals delivered every day as expected?
    • Yes ☐ No
15. Were the meals delivered on time each day?
    • Always ☐ Most days ☐ Rarely ☐ Never
16. How would you describe the behavior of the distribution staff?
    • Very respectful ☐ Respectful ☐ Neutral ☐ Disrespectful
17. Did you witness or experience any discrimination or exclusion during distribution?
    • Yes ☐ No

Section E: Effects on Food Security and Well-Being

 

18. Did the hot meals help reduce hunger in your household?
    • Yes ☐ No
19. Did your children show signs of improved energy or better mood after receiving meals?
    • Yes ☐ No ☐ Not applicable
20. Did elderly members report improved strength, mood, or ability to take medication?
    • Yes ☐ No ☐ Not applicable

Section F: Overall Satisfaction

 

21. How satisfied are you with the overall support provided by the Hot Meals Project?
    • Very satisfied ☐ Satisfied ☐ Neutral ☐ Dissatisfied
22. Do you trust the implementing organization to support you fairly and respectfully?
    • Yes ☐ No

Section G: Open Feedback

 

23. What did you like most about the meals or the distribution process?

24. What could be improved in future food distribution projects?

25. Any other comments or suggestions?

 

Annex 4: Daily Distribution Summary Template

 

 

Date	Shelter Name	Number of Families Served	Number of Meals Delivered	Issues/Comments	Staff Signature
YYYY- MM-DD	Example Shelter 1	500	500	None	[Name]
YYYY- MM-DD

Notes:

• Completed daily by the field distribution
• Used to monitor consistency and resolve daily delivery