Amind the barrage of rocket fire in Israel, I can share an update regarding our work to support Israel, and in particular, our Partnership Region of Netivot and Sdot Negev.
Yesterday, during the last day of Jewish Federations of North America’s National FedLab conference, we heard an in person update from Isaac “Bougie” Herzog, Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI). Later that day, I had a private meeting with our partners at the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC), all of whom are our partners on the ground already engaged in assistance efforts.
Sadly, one of the early rockets severely damaged a house in Netivot. Within hours, emergency funding was provided by the Jewish Agency Victims of Terror Fund, the family was given housing through JAFI’s Amigour program, and trauma counselors from ITC were meeting with the family and other members of the community. All of these partners are able to offer this assistance due to your generosity to our Jewish Federation.
Tragically, the rocket sirens continue to wail throughout Southern Israel today as another 100+ rockets are directed from Gaza to terrorize Israel. Locally, we will continue to monitor the situation, offer help as needed and partner with the JFNA Emergency Crisis Response Committee, our local Emergency Response Committee and our Partnership Together Committee if the situation calls for additional support.
I look forward to seeing our Philadelphia community at tomorrow’s Main Event, as we continue to stand in solidarity with you for the safety and security of all of us locally, in Israel and around the world.
Meanwhile, I join you in our prayers for peace for our friends and family in our beloved Israel. Thank you.