“Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.”
Isaiah 40:1
Dear Friends,
Today marks VFI’s 30th anniversary!
As Barry and I were driving to Jerusalem not long ago, we passed the street where our office used to be 35 years ago. Memories flooded back of our early days in publishing journals, magazines, and various publications. We enjoyed every moment of our work, but the situation in Israel was becoming increasingly difficult. Terrorist attacks were on the rise, and the call to "comfort my people" echoed in our ears. We realized that we must take the initiative and open a new chapter in our pursuits.
The experience we gained in the business world prepared us for what was to come. In 1994, we officially registered Vision for Israel. Our vision was to support and rehabilitate the vulnerable populations in Israeli society, including new immigrants, Holocaust survivors, the elderly, lone soldiers, and those living below the poverty line. The distress of these communities and the need for emergency and rescue support were close to our hearts. We knew we had to act.
Our journey has been one of love and commitment. In 1996, we faced the brutal reality of radical Islamic terrorism, which only deepened our resolve to be prepared for emergencies and to offer a helping hand. This shared vision between Barry and me was driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to be in the right place at the right time.
In February 1996, we visited families who had lost their loved ones to hostilities. In 1998, we opened the Joseph Storehouse, our operations centre in the Judean hills. It was a miracle in itself. By 2009, we had managed to purchase a lot to build a permanent home for Vision for Israel. Construction began in 2012, and in 2018, we entered the Millennium centre, the heart of our activities.
Reflecting on these memories, we are filled with gratitude. The inner feeling was that we should be prepared for emergencies in times of distress and lend a helping hand. The importance of being in a position to provide solutions in difficult times was clear to us. This drive was rooted in love and a desire to be in the right place at the right time.
Over the past thirty years, Vision for Israel has distributed millions of shekels and provided aid to millions of people. We've supported hundreds of thousands of children and tens of thousands of lone soldiers. In times of emergency, we've supplied life-saving equipment to rescue teams and medical centers, including over 260 safety shelters, 8 ambulances, and a bloodmobile for collecting blood donations.
We remember the initial days of Vision for Israel, registering as a nonprofit — feeling satisfaction despite not fully understanding the journey ahead. The unanimity and unity from everyone around us fueled our mission. The connection between our supporters worldwide and those in need was a bond we couldn't have anticipated.
The path was challenging but filled with profound moments. In February 1996, our hearts broke as we visited families who had lost their loved ones to terrorism. Despite the pain, these visits strengthened our resolve. The opening of the Joseph Storehouse in 1998 marked a significant milestone. It was more than a warehouse; it was a beacon of hope.
In 2009, securing a lot to build a permanent home for Vision for Israel was another miracle. The construction that began in 2012 and the completion of the Millennium centre in 2018 symbolised the growth and stability of our mission. This centre became the heart of our activities, a place where love and support emanate daily.
It's impossible to count and measure the donations and support that went out from Vision for Israel to all the recipients, the organisations, and the thousands of people who received aid each year. The impact is immeasurable, not just in numbers but in the lives touched and transformed.
Love knows no boundaries, no numbers, no time. Thirty years is a long time, full of experiences and events, but most importantly, full of love. As we reflect on these three decades, we are filled with gratitude for the support and generosity that have made our work possible.
Join us in continuing this journey of love and support. Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of those in need. Click here to donate.
Thank you for standing with us and for being part of our Vision for Israel family.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
Psalm 107:1
Shalom and blessings,
Barry & Batya Segal
