Extend Your Hand to Holocaust Survivors in Need

Dear Friends,

On 26 June 2024, we hosted another uplifting event at Vision for Israel’s headquarters — the Millennium Centre, welcoming 55 Holocaust survivors. It was a joyous occasion filled with music, singing, dancing, and a delightful brunch. The event, held in Hebrew, Russian, and English, created an intimate and heartwarming atmosphere. Witnessing these precious individuals enjoy the remaining years of their lives always brings tears to our eyes.

During this gathering, we also dedicated our 9th ambulance to Magen David Adom in Israel. This specially ordered 4x4 van, equipped for rough terrain, was a significant milestone, especially with Holocaust survivors joining us for this special moment. This mirrors the dedication of our 8th ambulance, which was dedicated a few months ago, and shared with a different group of survivors.

The importance of these gatherings cannot be overstated. Many survivors have shared that the greatest challenge in their elderly years is loneliness. Vision for Israel provides essential support: financial aid, blankets, duvets, heaters in winter, food supplies during holidays, towels, and other necessities. Yet, these provisions alone cannot heal the soul of someone haunted by the horrors they endured or the loss of a spouse.

In April 2023, the Holocaust Survivors’ Rights Authority reported 147,199 survivors living in Israel. By May 2024, this number had dropped to 132,826, a stark reminder of how quickly we are losing these precious souls. Tragically, approximately 15,000 survivors passed away in just one year.

The Foundation for the Welfare of Holocaust Victims has highlighted the ongoing struggles: 51% of survivors report they cannot afford to cover their basic household expenses. Thousands live in poverty. Bureaucratic challenges make it difficult for many to access the assistance they desperately need. These elderly individuals are often too frail to navigate government systems and feel forgotten.

The recent conflict has compounded their trauma. On 7th October, about 2,500 Holocaust survivors in southern Israel experienced new horrors, reminiscent of their past. Around 2,000 were forced to evacuate, and now, some are fleeing the north due to threats from Hezbollah. This brings back painful memories of my own (Barry’s) grandmother's suffering during pogroms in Belarus.

Despite efforts by the Welfare Ministry and other agencies, the needs of Holocaust survivors far exceed available resources. Within a decade, most of these survivors will be gone, while global anti-Semitism rises alarmingly. We must not let our elderly survivors feel abandoned. We must stand with them, offer encouragement, and show them the love of God.

Your support is crucial. More social events, increased funding for essentials, and addressing their various needs can significantly impact their lives. Now is the time to act. Your generosity will help Vision for Israel sustain their hope and extend their lives. Donate now and dedicate your donation to “Aid to the Poor”.

To learn more, visit the project page on our website:
https://www.visionforisrael.com/en/project/helping-holocaust-survivors

In His service,
Barry & Batya