(Courtesy of Israel Chesed Center) In the shadow of Oct. 7, a remarkable story of human connection unfolded. IDF soldiers called into battle, many without the most basic equipment, were outfitted through the donations of tens of thousands of Diaspora Jews. Hundreds of aid groups sprang to life, led by Jews across the world with hearts burning with solidarity with Israel’s defenders. But as weeks turned into months of unrelenting conflict, most faded away. leaving behind a gaping need for life-saving equipment.
Today, only a few dedicated organizations remain in operation and have become a lifeline for kitot konnenut (security response teams) and soldiers. When a soldier receives a pair of boots that keep his feet dry or a protective vest that shields him from harm, it’s more than gear — it’s a promise. A promise that says, “We will always be here to help you.”
The numbers tell a powerful story. These startup organizations have galvanized communities and delivered as promised. The 5 Towns-based Israel Chesed Center and Bergen County’s BC Lev Echad have delivered over 23,000 duffel bags filled with essential equipment and distributed over 500 drones and more than $20 million of aid for soldiers, displaced families and others impacted by the war.
Boots for Israel, an initiative of the Young Israel of Holliswood (Queens) has supplied over 70,000 pairs of boots for chayalim. Lev LaChayal and Unit 11741 have distributed over 5,000 helmets and vests, and as a group, these partners have provided cutting-edge security technology like night vision gear that can mean the difference between life and death. Israel Magen Fund has distributed equipment and gear of every sort all over Israel, from Gaza to the Lebanon border, while also supporting families of chayalim.
Since they are all 100% volunteer run, every single dollar raised is used for the mission — protecting those who are protecting us. They don’t host any paid fundraisers or employ executive teams; they have no marketing budgets, no massive ad campaigns, no fancy swag, no rent. Their uniqueness is that they have zero overhead. And they say “yes” to almost every request.
This isn’t just logistics. This is love in action.
Every donation is a lifeline. Every contribution is a shield. When you support our chayalim, you’re not just giving equipment — you’re giving protection, hope and a fighting chance. When it comes to protecting Israel’s defenders, every single piece of gear tells a story of survival, of courage and unwavering commitment.
Join us. Volunteer. Host an event. Adopt a chayal or an IDF unit. Help protect those who protect us.
