As the war in Israel progresses, our focus shifts from the initial shock of the atrocities to the questions of how it happened and to Israel’s response/war plan.
The situation is changing moment by moment, but there is one thing that remains constant as Am Yisroel fights this terrible evil, and begins to rebuild the lives that were shattered. That constant is that we will always be there for one another, and no Jew will let another navigate tragedy alone.
American Friends of Yad Eliezer, along with countless other organizations, groups and individuals have mobilized the greatest chesed machine of all time. We have been there for one another in a way that no other nation can replicate.
We all pray that the war will be over shortly, but unfortunately the effect will remain long after. As time passes, we are beginning to understand the scope of the tragedy from those that have survived, and from those families that have lost loved ones. We are constantly assessing where we can be most effective and where the needs are greatest.
This past week, we were able to assist with many needs for soldiers and reservists. As the IDF begin to organize and position themselves for the tough road ahead, we will be working with the families from the South to help them get back on their feet.
American Friends of Yad Eliezer is now focused on these critical areas where we feel that our network can be most effective:
1. The economic impact on the Southern towns. Many of these towns; Ofakim, Sderot, Arad, Tifrach, Netivot, and others were exceptionally poor prior to last week’s tragedy. With their economies shut down for weeks and possibly months, these typically larger families need help with basic necessities. Additionally, they anticipate schools in these areas will not open for weeks, leaving children at home which further complicates the economic and social stress on these families.
2. Although it is too early to fully assess, the psychological trauma this is having on kids (and adults) throughout the country is indescribable. The therapeutic needs are beyond comprehension, and we are working to supply resources to assist those in need as they navigate through this trauma.
3. 300,000 reservists were called up. They dropped their livelihoods to defend and fight on our behalf. Thousands of these families cannot go weeks and months without a source of income. We plan to be there for them until they are able to return from the battlefield and resume their normal employment.
4. Displaced families - Many homes were destroyed. Many were asked to leave until the IDF feel that it is safe to move back. They need a place to go and financial support, until they are able to return home and resume their lives.
We pray this nightmare ends soon, but until then American Friends of Yad Eliezer is helping suffering families as we have done for over 40 years. This crisis is like no other in Israel's recent history. Please help us help our brothers and sisters living on our front line.
American Friends of Yad Eliezer Inc.
410 Glenn Rd
Jackson, NJ 08527
Tax ID # 11-3459952
