Emergency Update on Israel
- קול ישראל ערבים זה בז'ה
Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh Bazeh: All Israel Is Responsible for One Another.
The Hebrew Free Loan Association of San Antonio stands in solidarity with the people of Israel.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims of this unprovoked invasion of Israeli sovereign territory. Our hearts go out to the families of those murdered, wounded and taken hostage. Please contact us if you, your family, or friends need temporary financial assistance to help loved ones in harm's way. Am Yisroel Chai!
Please note: Some community members might receive our Centennial Celebration Campaign Kickoff letter on Tuesday. We apologize for this unfortunate timing as a few were mailed on Friday before Shabbat began. Everything is on hold as we all focus on our family in Israel.
Sincerely, Jeffrey A. Siegel Howard S. Feinberg President Executive Director
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The Jewish Federation of San Antonio has released the following statement standing in solidarity with Israel:
Jewish Community Update:
Standing Strong with Israel
UPDATE AS OF SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 AT 2 PM
Dear Members of our Jewish Community,
During this extraordinarily difficult time, we wanted to provide you with another update on the situation in Israel and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to stand with Israel and support its absolute right to defend itself.
Over the past few months, Israel has faced significant challenges and security concerns. The region has witnessed ongoing tensions and conflicts, and our hearts have gone out to all citizens of Israel who have had to endure these difficult times. But today, these difficult times became extraordinary as innocent Israelis woke up under the threat of rocket fire, armed terrorists, and the fear of being kidnapped and forcibly taken into Gaza by Hamas militants.
As members of the global Jewish community, we are committed to supporting Israel and its right to self-defense. Israel, like any sovereign nation, has the fundamental right to protect its citizens and its land from threats and attacks.
In times of crisis, it is crucial for us to come together as a community and stand in solidarity with Israel. We encourage you to express your support in the following ways:
1. Education and Advocacy: Stay informed about the situation in Israel and the Middle East. Advocate for Israel's right to exist and defend itself. Share accurate information with your friends, family, and social networks. The Jewish Federations of North America has scheduled a webinar for tomorrow, October 8, at 11 a.m. CT. Click HERE to register.
2. Fundraising and Donations: We have created an Emergency Response Campaign to provide humanitarian aid and assistance to those affected by the conflict. Your contributions will make a significant difference and direct impact in providing relief to those in need.
3. Engagement and Action: Engage in dialogue and discussions within our community about the situation in Israel. It is through open and respectful conversations that we can better understand the complexities of the region and work toward peace and stability. All hospitals in Israel have called for emergency blood donations. Although you might not be able to donate there, use this as an opportunity to donate your blood locally and explain why you are doing it. Be an advocate, engage, and act as an ambassador for our Homeland.
4. Prayer and Solidarity: Keep the people of Israel in your thoughts and prayers. Show your solidarity with Israel by participating in events and gatherings that promote unity and support Israel’s right to exist. A version of the prayer for the welfare of the state of Israel can be found HERE.
As a community, our strength lies in our unity and our commitment to our shared values. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and support Israel during this critical time.
We will continue to monitor the situation in Israel closely and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our Jewish community and the State of Israel.
With solidarity and hope,
B’shalom (“in Peace”)
Lauren Stanley
Chair of the Board
Nammie Ichilov
President & CEO
Jewish Federation of San Antonio | jfsatx.org
The Jewish Federation of North America has released the following statement standing in solidarity with Israel:
Once again, on a holy day of the Jewish calendar, the people of Israel have come under attack. Once again, the brave military forces of the State of Israel are responding and will defend our beloved Jewish state. And once again, the Jewish communities of North America stand in total and complete solidarity with our Israeli brethren.
We pray for their safety and will do everything we can to ensure the complete and total success of their efforts. And once again, the Jewish Federations across North America will act immediately and comprehensively to support our brothers and sisters as they defend Israel.
The prayer for the State of Israel we recite in synagogue every week - including this morning - says ונתת שלום בארץ ושמחת עולם ליושביה - “Grant peace in the land and happiness to all its residents.” On this day, which is the holiday of Simchat Torah in Israel - we literally sing and dance with simcha - with happiness. Today is not a day of simcha in Israel, but it is a day of solidarity, determination, and utmost seriousness.
Israel will prevail, and the Jewish people will stand together as we always do.
Am Yisrael Chai.
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