Israel Emergency Update _ old
The people of Israel are under assault by a prolonged and deadly barrage of rocket fire originating from Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists in Gaza. As a deeply committed Jewish community, we stand in solidarity with our friends and family in Israel and pray for their safety and well-being. We extend our prayers for a speedy recovery – refu’ah sh’leymah – to all those injured and mourn for all innocent lives lost during these senseless attacks.
The indiscriminate violence has left a growing toll of suffering and trauma in the most dramatic escalation of conflict the country has endured in seven years. The attacks have been widespread from small towns surrounding Jerusalem to the heart of the country in Tel Aviv and have forced millions of Israelis into safe rooms and bomb shelters causing trauma and fear. Schools are closed and everyday life has come to a standstill.
Above all, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation remains steadfast in its commitment to the people and nation of Israel. We are in contact with our global partners who are working tirelessly to support the innocent victims throughout Israel.
- Federation overseas partner The Jewish Agency for Israel is distributing immediate emergency funds from its Victims of Terror Fund within 24 hours to those who lost family members, were injured or whose home suffered a direct hit.
- Staff members from The Jewish Agency for Israel are providing emotional and psychological support to 3,000 new immigrants to Israel, many of whom are currently residing in Absorption Centers(?), and in particular, 900 children who are already displaying signs of trauma.
- Staff members from The Jewish Agency for Israel are ensuring the safety of Holocaust Survivors and vulnerable older adults living in subsidized housing.
- Mentors working with The Jewish Agency for Israel Youth Futures program are connecting thousands of at-risk children and families with community services.
- Federation overseas partner the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) is offering ongoing critical support to the vulnerable elderly and people with disabilities.
- Federation partner Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC) activated its emergency protocols, which include a 24/7 hotline both in-person and remote care at resiliency centers. Flooded with calls from desperate parents, ITC is offering written guidelines in several languages with advice on how to help children cope. Specialized therapists are supporting parents on Zoom and Facebook.
To learn about how Israelis are coping during the crisis, click here.
