Popemobile is Francis’ final gift to children of Gaza

It was the Pope’s final wish for the people to whom he had shown such solidarity throughout his pontificate, especially in its final years.

In partnership with Caritas Jerusalem, the vehicle is being outfitted with blast-proof windows, diagnostic tools, wound care supplies, vaccines and other life-saving equipment. It will be staffed by a doctor and nurse, and is expected to be on the ground in a matter of weeks, once humanitarian access has been restored.

Pope Francis entrusted the initiative to Caritas Jerusalem, seeking to respond to the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where nearly one million children have been displaced. Amid the war, collapsed infrastructure, a mutilated healthcare system and lack of education, children are the first to pay the price, with starvation, infections and other preventable conditions putting their lives at risk.

Caritas Jerusalem, which has long served Gaza’s communities under difficult conditions, is leading the on-the-ground effort. With more than 100 staff members committed to healthcare delivery, the organisation is now building on the Pope’s legacy of compassion and strength while bringing his final blessing to the people of Gaza.

“This vehicle represents the love, care and closeness shown by His Holiness for the most vulnerable, which he expressed throughout the crisis,” said Anton Asfar, secretary general of Caritas Jerusalem.

In photos released from the project, the vehicle appears to have been carefully adapted to fit the needs of those most in need.

But “it’s not just a vehicle”, said Peter Brune, secretary general of Caritas Sweden in a media statement. “It’s a message that the world has not forgotten about the children in Gaza.”

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Popemobile of peace is Pope Francis final gift to Gaza (By Francesca Merlo/Vatican News)

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