Urgent Update from Israel: Emergency Support Needed
Over the weekend, Israel sustained terrible damage from Iranian missile attacks, especially in the cities of Bat Yam, Ramat Gan and Petach Tikva where Project Kesher Israel (PKI) has a significant presence. Many members of our network saw the rockets firsthand. Staff members had windows and doors torn apart because of the explosions and many endured severe panic attacks.
According to early reports from the Ukrainian Embassy in Israel, five Ukrainian nationals were killed in a strike on a Bat Yam apartment building that took the lives of seven people and wounded over 100 more. The dead are believed to include three Ukrainian children though victims’ bodies are still being identified. Ukrainian diplomats remain in close communication with the Israeli police and other agencies to finish the identification process and arrange the repatriation.
In response, PKI has made all upcoming programs remote only, with leaders and staff working night and day to quell participants’ fears and offer support. Rabin Medical Center has enlisted the help of PKI social worker Rita Olchovsky, who is tending to the seriously injured. And PKI board member Margarita Slavkin is working to connect those injured or displaced with local municipal services.
To provide additional much-needed assistance, Project Kesher is requesting emergency funds to support:
Zoom-based mental health workshops;
One-on-one counseling; and
Russian-language lectures for new Israeli immigrants on the history of tensions with Iran, the strategy behind the attack and likely ramifications.
Moving forward, we anticipate that our network will need more funds for emergency repairs and provisions, keeping in mind that those that depend on PKI most face the greatest danger. Few have access to safe rooms and shelters, or can purchase enough food and supplies to remain at home for long periods of time. They’re also more emotionally isolated than other Israelis because they’re not yet fluent in Hebrew.
As we embark on an emergency fundraising campaign—preparing for a potentially lengthy conflict necessitating ongoing assistance that exceeds reserves—we ask that you give what you can and encourage others to do the same. Thank you.