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Popemobile Turned Pediatric Clinic Unveiled in Bethlehem for Gaza

Caritas is seeking Israeli authorization for the vehicle to join its mobile health teams serving children in the enclave.

Overview

  • The converted Mitsubishi, dubbed the Vehicle of Hope, is stocked for frontline pediatric care with vaccines, sutures, oxygen supplies and rapid tests.
  • Cardinal Anders Arborelius blessed the unit at a presentation near the Church of the Nativity, calling it a sign that Gaza’s children are not forgotten.
  • Caritas says the clinic is dedicated to pediatric triage and treatment and would integrate with its existing Gaza mobile units, some of which were damaged during the war.
  • Caritas Sweden estimates the mobile dispensary could handle roughly 200 consultations a day with a team of up to four health workers.
  • The vehicle was originally donated by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and carried Pope Francis during his 2014 visit to Bethlehem.