Pope Francis’s old popemobile refitted as mobile pediatric clinic for Gaza children

The international Catholic relief nonprofit organization Caritas unveils in Bethlehem the “Vehicle of Hope” — the late pope Francis’s old popemobile, now refitted as a mobile pediatric clinic for wounded children in Gaza.

“It is my hope that this vehicle will continue to bring healing and compassion to children in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza,” Pope Leo XIV writes in a letter. “Its new mission reflects the love and solidarity embodied in Pope Francis’s legacy.”

However, Israel says it has received no request for the vehicle to enter Gaza. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories tells The Times of Israel: “When we receive a request, we will evaluate it.”

The Mitsubishi’s chassis was reinforced to drive on damaged roads, along with upgraded suspension and high-resistance tires, says Caritas.

“Inside, the clinic provides a medical workspace, including a triage and examination area equipped for trauma stabilization, post-amputation care and emergency pediatric treatment,” according to the nonprofit. “Refrigeration units, compliant with WHO’s vaccine-storage standards, allow safe transport of insulin, vaccines and pediatric antibiotics. The vehicle’s independent power system, supported by a backup battery bank, enables 6–8 hours of off-grid operation.”

Francis personally approved the project before passing away. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas donated the Mitsubishi for the pope’s use during his 2014 papal visit, after which it was given to the Franciscan order. The order passed it along to the Jerusalem branch of Catholic aid organization Caritas Internationalis, which came up with the idea for it to be used by a medical team.