"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6
Dear Friend,
As you might have heard, Israel was attacked by Hamas terrorists early Saturday morning, on Simchat Torah. Over the last day and a half, the situation has escalated to an unprecedented level. As we write this letter, Israel is grappling with horrors that defy description. The sudden attack against civilians, entering their homes, and firing of over 3,000 rockets targeted at civilian areas led to Operation "Swords of Iron". The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) report numerous casualties, including losses in their elite units. There are over 700 killed, and over two thousand wounded, some in serious or critical condition, putting immense strain on our healthcare system. Furthermore, 100 civilians and soldiers were kidnapped into the Gaza Strip.
Families have been targeted in their own homes, emphasizing the complex and volatile situation that requires our immediate and sustained action.
Emergency & Disaster Relief List - Immediate Action Required
We need to be fully prepared and fully equipped. We've refined our plan to be responsive to the current dire circumstances. The total funding needed now exceeds $814,000. Here's an updated breakdown:
- Personal Protective Equipment for First Responders: $120,000
- Two Bulletproof Vehicles for VFI: $197,237
- Millennium Center Triage Station: $40,000
- Bomb Shelters for the Northern Region: $12,000 each
- Front Line Recipient Hygienic Packages: $20,000
- Mental and Emotional Well-Being Support: $120,000
- Special Bullet Proof Vests and Medical Kits: $305,277
These funds will not just provide physical protection; they will serve as a beacon against the encroaching darkness. Your support at this critical time can make an immeasurable impact.
Click HERE to donate and dedicate your donation to “Medical & Disaster Relief”.
On the International and Political Front
The unfolding crisis doesn't just affect Israel. Reports of American citizens among the dead and hostages could influence U.S. policy. Talks between Egypt and Hamas for the release of hostages on humanitarian grounds are in progress, as are discussions within Israel about forming an emergency unity government.
Why We Must Act Now
The humiliation and dehumanization inflicted by these attacks seek to crush not just our bodies but also our spirits. We are fighting a battle on multiple fronts—physical, psychological, and spiritual. Your support could be the lifeline that saves not just lives but the soul of our nation.
We invite you to stand with us, as we put on the "whole armor of God" in this great struggle. Your support can illuminate the path during this dark period.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. — Eph. 6:11
We know this isn't just a physical battle; it's a spiritual one as well. In unity, we can be the light against encroaching darkness. Your support is not just a donation; it's an act of resistance against the darkness, a manifestation of unity, and a pathway to healing. Thank you for standing with us.
Shalom,
Barry & Batya
and the VFI Team
