GAZA, August 18, 2006 (WAFA)- World Vision said that Gaza communities face further economic decline.

In an article by Wadi Razzouk, World Vision reported that hundreds of families that fled from the village of Shokeh in the Gaza Strip have returned home to discover extensive damage. Israeli forces pulled out of the village on 5 August after an eight-day offensive that left 30 houses, 500 greenhouses and more than 5,000 dunums (1,250 acres) of agricultural lands demolished. According to human rights groups, 17 people were killed and many were wounded during the offensive.

"The village of Shokeh is known as one of the major breadbaskets of the Gaza Strip. The destruction of the fields and greenhouses has led to an increase in the prices of agricultural products," the article stated.

"Shokeh mayor Mansur Breek said his village of more than 10,000 people would have to rebuild the heavily damaged road, power and water networks."

Area Development Programme (ADP) Manager in southern Gaza, Shafiq Yousef, said World Vision projects were damaged as well.

"At least 10 of the 17 greenhouses we built earlier this year have been destroyed. The people in the village feel disheartened and are angry that much of their farmlands were demolished just before the harvest of the vegetables. We are now assessing the extent of damage to our projects and are studying ways to help the community," he said.

About 200 families in the village received food packages from World Vision. There are more than 200 World Vision sponsored children in the village.

In addition to its support to the agricultural sector in Shokeh, World Vision sponsors two kindergartens and two community centres. Earlier this year, it built a playground for children in the community.

Despite the withdrawal of the Israeli army, many families who fled the village remain in the neighbouring city of Rafah for fear of a future offensive. Israeli forces are still occupying the Gaza international airport just outside Shokeh.

World Vision is an international Christian relief and development organisation working to promote the well being of all people - especially children.

(22:46 P) (19:46 GMT)