Historic Campaign Launched by Jewish Federations of North America to Support Israel

In the midst of one of the darkest chapters in the history of the State of Israel, the Jewish Federations of North America have embarked on a historic mission to raise half a billion dollars in aid for Israel. This monumental campaign comes in response to the devastating surprise attack by the terrorist organization Hamas, which has already claimed the lives of over 1,300 individuals.

Every Jewish Federation across North America has already initiated efforts to generate significant funds to address the pressing needs of affected individuals, families, and communities. These funds will be allocated as required, with a focus on immediate humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies, equipment, housing, and the longer-term objectives of rebuilding and rehabilitation, commencing with house restoration and trauma counseling.

Jewish Federations of North America President and CEO, Eric Pingerhut, who was in Israel during the Hamas attack, expressed his sentiments, saying, "Their brutality was appalling, and the images of their crimes against Jews—the worst since the Holocaust—will stay with me forever. But I was also privileged to see the Israelis unite as one nation like never before, volunteer their time, organize relief efforts, and share the truth about what happened with the world. This moment demands our support, and the Jewish Federations will provide it both financially and by rallying our communities to continue supporting Israel in the coming weeks and months."

He also noted the collaboration with various organizations, stating, "We are grateful that the Union of Reform Judaism, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, Hillel International, the JCC of North America, and the NCJW have joined us in this effort, and we encourage others to do the same. We will work collectively to assess the most urgent needs and allocate resources accordingly."

Pingerhut emphasized the swift action taken, revealing that "Already today, the Jewish Federations have disbursed $10 million to 20 organizations offering emergency aid and support in Israel. Beneficiaries include the Jewish Agency, the Joint, World ORT, the Israel Trauma Coalition, Ihud Hatzla, Magen David Adom, Zaka, the Center Barzilai Medical Center, and Soroka Medical Center. These funds encompass immediate and critical requirements, such as medical treatment, emergency services, evacuation, transportation, housing, support for victims of terrorism, trauma assistance, and psychological support, as well as medium and long-term preparations."

In closing, he remarked, "This campaign is just one facet of the way Jewish federations have historically supported Israel. We have initiated the most extensive community mobilization effort in support of Israel in our history. Already, more than 120 federations have organized community events, attracting hundreds of thousands of supporters, including political and civic leaders."

Chairwoman of the Jewish Federations of North America, Julie Platt, reflected on their century-long commitment to Israel, stating, "For over 100 years, even before Israel's independence, the Jewish Federations were a pillar of the Jewish state. We helped build its communities, strengthened its society, and we were always there to support it in its most difficult hours. And we will do so now, in these darkest moments."

She concluded with a resolute message, "The message is clear: Israel must receive the support it needs to eradicate the threat of terrorism and restore safety and security to its people, no matter how long it takes and no matter how difficult it may be. We will all work together to ensure that this support remains unwavering."