Life in Israel is never easy but the last week has been one of the toughest in recent history. Reserve soldiers were called up at a moment’s notice following Hamas’ horrific and barbaric terror attack in southern Israel, many leaving vital items at home. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has rarely worked at the capacity it is now and as such, lacks the resources to ensure that those on the front lines have everything they need for a prolonged period of time.
With communities across the country aware of the situation, many stepped up to provide essential equipment and supplies to those keeping Israeli citizens safe on the front lines. One such example of this is from members of an Anglo community of almost 180 families living in a suburb of Kiryat Gat called Carmei Gat.
Working tirelessly around the clock, while also looking after their children who have been home due to school closures, a group of dedicated volunteers organized, sponsored or packed 800 Shabbat meals, more than 50 meals and flowers for the elderly and local women whose husbands are away on army duty. Additionally they have sent 5000 Shekels worth of rain tents to soldiers in the north, 30 boxes of high tech and tactical equipment to bases near Lebanon, 60 boxes of protein bars to Hermon, sourced equipment for five bases including 1000 vests and 5000 G-shock watches, and provided 200 ‘Lone Soldiers’ in the north with pizza.
All of these initiatives have been made possible through a community member who used her Instagram platform to fundraise, funds raised by Kii NYC, and from generous donations through the community’s Michael Levin Base fundraising link which has seen more than 50 donations from supporters based in the USA, UK, Canada, Israel and Hong Kong.
Israel’s communities and Jews worldwide are coming together to ensure the State of Israel’s survival on an unprecedented scale. If you would like to contribute to future initiatives to help those keeping Israel safe, you can do so at https://causematch.com/Israel-at-War/friendsofcarmeigat
Ilan Itzkowitz lives in Carmei Gat. He is a former Jewish Link intern.
