Mitzpeh Yericho is surrounded by large desert mountains yet has ample greenery for shade. It is a few miles from the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea, yet many porches rest on cliffs that give way to breathtaking views. These are a few of the contradictions that make Mitzpeh Yericho a beautiful place.
On the days following the October 7 attacks I witnessed how it is not just the scenery that makes this yishuv incredible but also the people.
I was visiting one of my brothers and his family for the last days of Sukkot when word got out about the atrocities committed by Hamas. There was much fear and trepidation but I also saw how an incredibly strong and supportive community comes together. People babysat for children whose mothers had not had time for themselves since their husbands left for war. When a hundred soldiers were stationed in Mitzpeh and needed basic provisions, there was a large and quick response of food, toiletries and linen. The people of Mitzpeh understood that they are a family, and family takes care of its members.
After returning to America and sharing these experiences, my friends, family and I decided we wanted to do something to help the people of Mitzpeh. We reached out to the mayor of Mitzpeh Yericho, Aliza Pilichowski, who made aliyah from Florida with her family in 2014, to see what we could do to assist such a giving community.
Aliza explained that while there is some security, in the event of an emergency, they would need much more. Specifically, they were fundraising for a generator for an evacuation center, an internal generator, an upgrade in security cameras, and an ambulance.
While we did not think we would be able to cover the cost of the whole project, we still wanted to do our part and came up with the idea of a kumzitz where all proceeds would go directly to the security of the yishuv.
The fundraiser was a success thanks to the great efforts and generosity of friends, family and both the Jewish and non-Jewish community. Sheri Goldman and Moshe Eisen found sponsors, advertised and took care of most of the financial matters concerning this event. Efraim Shachter ran the kumzitz and did an incredible job of engaging and inspiring the crowd. Rabbi Robinson, Tamar Fix and the congregants of Lincoln Square Synagogue truly embodied the idea “כל ישראל ,עֲרֵבִים זה בזה” or every Jew is responsible for each other. They not only hosted, but ensured that every detail of this event ran smoothly.
While we were able to contribute to this worthy cause thanks to the unity of the Jewish people, there is still more fundraising that needs to be done!
If you or someone you know would like to assist in ensuring the continued safety and vibrancy of Mitzpeh Yericho, please email [email protected]
