(Courtesy of Cong. Bnai Yeshurun) Following an incredibly meaningful Shabbat Chayal across Teaneck, in memory of Ilan Tokayer, z’l, the community came together at Congregation Bnai Yeshurun on Sunday morning to raise $100,000 for the security of our beloved friends in Kerem Shalom.

It was an opportunity to celebrate our community’s deep connection to one of Israel’s most strategic communities, not only because of its location at the entrance to the Philadelphi corridor, but because of the profound unity which exists there, where religious and secular Jews live together with deep love and respect, bonded by their commitment to Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael.

In the words of Talia Weitzen, widow of Amichai, HY”D, who fell in defense of Kerem Shalom on October 7: “The story of Kerem Shalom is not about individuals. It is bigger than all of us. It is about faith, the love of the Jewish people for each other, and for the Land. Hashem has been with us the entire time, no matter the difficulties.”

The gathering was also an opportunity to honor those who have led our community’s response to October 7; Elana Koslowe of BC Lev Echad for the shipping efforts to Israel, Fran Berg for her personal efforts on behalf of the displaced, Julie Wasserman and Abbie Adamit for the weekly hostage walk, Chana Shields for incredible leadership of BCJAC and Mizrachi, and Pearl Rawson for her incredible support of Kerem Shalom.

To contribute to the Kerem Shalom defense fund, please visit https://www.jcot.org/form/kerem-shalom-security-campaign or be in touch directly with Rabbi Daniel Fridman at [email protected].