United Hatzalah of Israel is the world’s largest fully volunteer EMS organization. With approximately 7,000 volunteers located in Israel, they provide free medical care with a nearly 90-second average response time to emergency calls. Since the terror attack on Oct. 7, the organization has responded to an additional 3,000 calls and says their vital equipment and supplies are running low. According to Jeremy Cole, media spokesperson for United Hatzalah, the increase in demand has created an urgent need for funding.
“United Hatzalah has been on the ground working around the clock since we first got the call that a terrorist invasion was taking place,” said Cole. “Since then, our volunteers have been working hand in hand with the IDF, treating both civilians and military injured on the front lines from the terror attacks, treating thousands of people wounded from shootings, bombings, burnings, stabbings, and worse.” United Hatzalah volunteers have been healing those who faced the worst of the horrors, preparing for it only to get worse as the war continues. Cole added that amid the devastation, they continue to respond to regular medical calls, treating thousands a day with the fastest medical response in the world.
As Americans navigate this very difficult time, many are wondering what they can do to help the dire situation in Israel. Cole recommended donating to United Hatzalah. By rallying behind their fundraising efforts, donors are not only ensuring their ability to handle the increased call volume but also expressing their gratitude for their unwavering commitment to saving lives and making sure they have what they need to respond to adversity going forward.
“There are a lot of amazing organizations that are out there helping, but if you want to save a life in Israel right now, you could do so at israelrescue.org where all donations go directly to treating those injured in the recent terror attacks,” said Cole. “This is a marathon not a sprint,” he said, and raising funds for supplies and gear is essential to saving lives in Israel, now and in the future.
We’ve been doing it for 18 years and we want to continue helping those who need us.” The best way to do this, he emphasized, is to prepare for impending crises.
United Hatzalah has also established the My Mitzvah Program, a crowdfunding platform that allows people to personalize campaign pages and engage friends and family in this fundraising initiative, sharing their dedication to this critical cause and tracking the impact of their collective efforts.
As witnessed on Oct. 7, emergencies can strike without warning, and without the necessary resources, Hatzalah’s work is at risk. Proactive fundraising will be the driving force that ensures the financial support they need to continue their mission of saving lives. Contributions can make all the difference in sustaining this lifeline in these times of crisis.
To donate to United Hatzalah, visit www.israelrescue.org.