The Jewish Agency for Israel – U.S.

Israeli Terror Survivor Recounts Ordeal

elanagoodwin — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:42:21 +0000

Israeli Terror Survivor Recounts Ordeal

Tamar was shot in the stomach by Hamas and her boyfriend was killed as they took shelter in a kibbutz apartment after escaping the Nova Music Festival massacre. Now, she is receiving support from The Jewish Agency's Fund for Victims of Terror as she recovers.

October 18, 2023

Israeli Terror Survivor Recounts Ordeal

Tamar was shot in the stomach by Hamas and her boyfriend was killed as they took shelter in a kibbutz apartment after escaping the Nova Music Festival massacre. Now, she is receiving support from The Jewish Agency's Fund for Victims of Terror as she recovers.

October 18, 2023

Tamar in a wheelchair in the hospital | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Tamar Kam, 23, is a survivor of the horrific Nova Music Festival massacre. On October 7, Tamar was at the festival with her boyfriend of three years, Ofek. When the sirens alerting festivalgoers of rockets overhead started blaring in the early morning, they got into their car, trying to get to somewhere safe. They were stopped by a police roadblock and abandoned their vehicle, running into a mobile shelter beside the road for safety. But safety was nowhere to be found.

Hamas terrorists attacked the shelter, throwing grenades inside and shooting with automatic weapons. All around Tamar and Ofek were wounded, dead, screams. Ofek and Tamar managed to flee the shelter and make their way to the nearby Kibbutz Alumim, entering an apartment, desperately seeking somewhere safe. Ofek helped Tamar hide under a bed while he grabbed a kitchen knife to arm himself. They soon heard terrorists surround the house and then the bullets began flying all around them. Ofek was shot in the chest and killed. Tamar screamed, but thinking she could hear Hebrew, she opened the front door and was then shot in the stomach.

The terrorist barked at her in Arabic, “What is your name?” Barely breathing, Tamar replied and asked that he not kill her. He took aim with his gun, intending to shoot, but the approach of Israeli soldiers to the kibbutz made the terrorist retreat. Tamar collapsed to the floor and somehow made a tourniquet around her stomach. She lay there for hours, next to Ofek’s body, struggling to keep herself awake, to not lose consciousness, until being evacuated by soldiers.

Tamar suffered from shrapnel wounds to her back and a bullet wound to her stomach that went all the way through her back, causing severe nerve damage. She is currently in the hospital recovering and is unable to stand or walk and requires long-term rehabilitation. While there, a representative of The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT) visited her. The FVOT, often the first responder for families and individuals impacted by terror, distributes immediate grants within 24-48 hours of a direct attack, offering support for short-term needs and helping with long-term rehabilitation and post-trauma care. Tamar is extremely thankful for the assistance from the FVOT, which is helping her cover the basic financial needs of herself and her mother at this time.

The Fund is made possible by the generosity of the Jewish Federations of North America / United Israel Appeal, Keren Hayesod, foundations and donors worldwide and people like you. Our aid is critical for victims’ immediate well-being and long-term recovery and we are currently operating and supporting more victims on a wider scale than ever before. To support the Fund, donate here.

Watch: Tamar Tells Her Story

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Wounded Festival Survivor Receives FVOT Support

elanagoodwin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 20:13:58 +0000

Wounded Festival Survivor Receives FVOT Support

Through The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror, Sela, who survived being shot four times by Hamas terrorists at the Nova Music Festival, is getting financial and emotional support as he recovers.

October 18, 2023

Wounded Festival Survivor Receives FVOT Support

Through The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror, Sela, who survived being shot four times by Hamas terrorists at the Nova Music Festival, is getting financial and emotional support as he recovers.

October 18, 2023

Sela in the hospital with his mother, Sigal, and sister, Shaked, at his side | Photo: The Jewish Agency

On the morning of Saturday, October 7, Sela Maagan was enjoying the Nova Music Festival near Kibbutz Reim with thousands of others when the music stopped due to rockets being fired overhead from Gaza. Shortly after that, panic ensued when Hamas terrorists infiltrated the festival, mercilessly killing hundreds, injuring countless others, and kidnapping many Israelis to Gaza.

Sela, 23, is one of the lucky survivors. A former combat soldier in Israel’s navy, he currently works in the Ashdod Port. He and three of his closest friends decided to attend the festival, not knowing the horror they would encounter there.

When the terrorists began their attack, Sela and many of the other festivalgoers began to run, seeking safety but not knowing where to turn. Some took refuge in a mobile shelter, thinking they would be protected there, but Sela, who was shot four times, decided to keep running.

All alone, not knowing where his friends were, Sela found a place to hide and called his sister, whose husband is a member of Israel’s security forces. His sister called anyone she thought could help him and told their parents what was happening, calling Sela back every 10 minutes. At home, his mother was determined that Sela would survive; she packed a bag with food and supplies and waited by the phone. Finally, the family got word that Sela had been rescued. His three friends, whom he’d known since childhood, were murdered.

Since arriving at the hospital, Sela has undergone multiple surgeries and there are more to come. Even injured, after sustaining shrapnel wounds and being hit by four bullets – two of which are still lodged in his body — Sela radiates strength and determination. He is already on his feet and determined to heal.

He knows he lost three of his best friends and that many of his comrades from the Israeli army have been called up for the reserves, and that they are going to fight. Despite the hell he has been through, he wants to get better, visit their base, raise their spirits and encourage them.

While in the hospital, Jewish Agency Director General and CEO Amira Ahronoviz paid Sela and his family a visit, bringing with her financial assistance dispersed through The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT) and a message on behalf of the global Jewish people. The FVOT, often the first responder for families and individuals impacted by terror, distributes immediate grants within 24-48 hours of a direct attack, offering support for short-term needs and helping with long-term rehabilitation and post-trauma care. The message Amira relayed was one of solidarity and love from Jews around the world who contribute to the Fund.

Sela is one of the many injured survivors who have a long road to recovery ahead of them. And we will be there, doing all we can for the survivors and their families, as well as for the families of the victims of those murdered at the festival and in the attacks on Kibbutz communities near the Gaza border.

The Fund for Victims of Terror is made possible by the generosity of the Jewish Federations of North America / United Israel Appeal, Keren Hayesod, foundations and donors worldwide and people like you. Our aid is critical for victims’ immediate well-being and long-term recovery and we are currently operating and supporting more victims on a wider scale than ever before. To support the Fund, donate here.

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Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog Meets with Family Affected by Terror

elanagoodwin — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 17:20:23 +0000

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog Meets with Family Affected by Terror

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog met with the Bar-Gil family, whose kibbutz was attacked by Hamas, and offered support

October 16, 2023

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog Meets with Family Affected by Terror

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog met with the Bar-Gil family, whose kibbutz was attacked by Hamas, and offered support

October 16, 2023

Jewish Agency Chairman Major General (Res.) Doron Almog with Rami Bar-Gil and his daughter | Photo: The Jewish Agency

On Saturday, October 7, the Bar-Gil family from Nirim was evacuated from their home after being besieged for many hours following the infiltration of Hamas terrorists into the kibbutz. When Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog met with Rami, the father of the family, Rami recounted the ordeal they went through:

“It all started at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday morning. My daughter was at a friend’s house and called us from the road to say she was making her way back home when suddenly, an IED landed right next to her car. She immediately got out of the car and ran for shelter. I got up in a panic and raced over in my car to pick her up, but when I got to her we couldn’t leave the shelter because of the rain of the rockets. While we were in the shelter, we started hearing gunshots and that’s when we realized that there were terrorists in the kibbutz. After about two and a half hours inside the shelter, it seemed the fight outside had calmed down a bit, so I made the decision to leave the shelter.

My daughter and I got in my car and flew to the house. My son, Tomer, waited for us there, and we ran to him in the shelter and broke the handle of the door to our safe room (a lot of people did this so that the terrorists wouldn’t be able to open the shelter from outside). As soon as we got in, we heard a very loud explosion that shook the whole safe room. Then we realized that an RPG missile was fired at the house and a battle was happening behind our home.

Around 17:00, security forces arrived and rescued our family. When we saw the security forces, it felt like we saw angels in white taking us out of this hell. And it was hell. It felt like the movie Armageddon – everything burned, dead bodies on the side of the road. The most innocent things like children’s toys thrown on the floor in disarray. Like in a movie about an atomic bomb.

At first, the residents were directed to a central emergency department in the kibbutz where they met with other neighbors who had been besieged in their home.

Ella, my daughter, soon discovered that her best friend whom she had grown up with had been murdered, as had her friend’s father.

We are a small agricultural community, and we all know each other. It’s terrible to see people you know murdered. The kibbutz was almost completely destroyed. Now we are staying in a hotel in Eilat and trying to figure out what’s next for us. I have no idea what will happen now. How do we restore our lives, the kibbutz? We will have to start all over. To support the children, the women, and the older residents who experienced a second Holocaust in their lives. And we will need all of the Jewish people’s help to do this.”

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Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz Visits Wounded

elanagoodwin — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:51:27 +0000

Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz Visits Wounded

Since the Israel-Hamas war began, Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz has been meeting with Jewish Agency beneficiaries and staff, and visiting those wounded in the attacks, offering support and strength.

October 17, 2023

Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz Visits Wounded

Since the Israel-Hamas war began, Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz has been meeting with Jewish Agency beneficiaries and staff, and visiting those wounded in the attacks, offering support and strength.

October 17, 2023

At the hospital, Amira visits Maayan, who was wounded at the dance party in the desert where 260 people were murdered by Hamas assailants | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 and the war began, Jewish Agency Director General & CEO Amira Ahronoviz’s days have been extra busy.

Recently, she started her morning off by visiting the Hadassah Neurim Youth Village, where 70 Na’ale students (youth who come to Israel without their parents to complete high school) were evacuated from the Kfar Silver Youth Village near Ashkelon. The students had been evacuated on the Saturday when the terrorists attacked and were forced to leave quickly without taking any belongings. Amira met with the young students, teenagers who came mostly from Russian-speaking countries, some even due to the war in Ukraine. They shared with Amira how when they arrived at the Youth Village, the staff and counselors took care of all their needs and provided everything they lacked.

From there, Amira continued to the offices of The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT). The Fund, often the first responder for families and individuals impacted by terror, distributes immediate grants within 24-48 hours of a direct attack, offering support for short-term needs and helping with long-term rehabilitation and post-trauma care. Amira met with the Fund’s employees and volunteers who have been working tirelessly to reach each and every family that has been affected since the war began, and to provide them with immediate initial aid, which will then become long-term support.

She also met the staff of the Ra’anana Absorption Center (where the FVOT’s offices are located) and heard from them about the sensitivity in treating new immigrants, many of whom are experiencing rocket fire for the first time.

Amira ended the day at the Beilinson Hospital of the Rabin Medical Center in Petah Tikva, where she visited some of those wounded in the terrorist attacks, including Maayan. Maayan was at the nature dance party in the desert along with three friends from the town of Even Yehuda when Hamas terrorists invaded, killing 260 attendees and kidnapping many others. Maayan was wounded in the massacre but survived, as did one of his friends; the other two were killed by Hamas. Amira spoke with him, heard his story, and shared moving messages of strength from world Jewry. Maayan, and the thousands of others affected by terror, are currently receiving support from the FVOT.

Along with Amira, the other employees of The Jewish Agency and the many volunteers who joined the organization’s activities, are working to help the citizens of Israel day by day and will continue to do so as the war goes on.

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Volunteers Step Up to Help Evacuees, IDF Soldiers

elanagoodwin — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 17:59:39 +0000

Volunteers Step Up to Help Evacuees, IDF Soldiers

In Israel’s dire time of need, Jewish Agency participants and beneficiaries in Israel and abroad are volunteering to help evacuees from Gaza Envelope communities and absorption centers as well as soldiers in the Israeli army.

October 12, 2023

Volunteers Step Up to Help Evacuees, IDF Soldiers

In Israel’s dire time of need, Jewish Agency participants and beneficiaries in Israel and abroad are volunteering to help evacuees from Gaza Envelope communities and absorption centers as well as soldiers in the Israeli army.

October 12, 2023

Harel (middle), The Jewish Agency's Israeli emissary in Belgium, stands with community members among boxes they are packing with equipment for Israeli soldiers | Photo provided by Harel

People around the world, and in Israel, from the elderly to young students, have been stepping up to help those impacted by terror in Israel this week as the country entered a war with Hamas.

Amigour residents organizing packages | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Residents of our Amigour in Kiryat Gat packed care packages for evacuees while the residents of the “Rupin” Home for the Elderly in Kiryat Ata organized donations for soldiers. Many Masa Israel Journey Fellows have been participating in volunteer activities – organizing food packages, babysitting, deliveries, etc. At Ulpan Etzion in Jerusalem, olim (immigrants) put together 250 care packages for Ethiopian kids from the Ibim Absorption Center who were evacuated to the Park Hotel in Netanya. Shortly thereafter, the 450 immigrants from the Ibim, Ashkelon and Ashdod Absorption Centers, including 170 children, who were evacuated to the Park Hotel, received donations of diapers, toys and sweets, distributed by dozens of volunteers.

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog visits Ethiopian evacuees from our Ibim Absorption Center at the Park Hotel | Photo: The Jewish Agency

On October 10, Jewish Agency Chairman Doran Almog and Jewish Agency Director General and CEO Amira Ahronoviz both visited the Park Hotel to meet with immigrants from the absorption centers. Amira spoke with Esther, a resident of Netanya, who arrived at the Park Hotel in the city to help new immigrants now evacuated from their home at Ibim. Esther, who was born in Ethiopia, works in the field of education and because schools are currently closed, wanted to find a way to volunteer and help others.

“When I heard about the evacuation of olim in the south, I didn’t think twice and joined the other coordinators at the hotel to help with whatever was needed. I asked the evacuees what interests them and what they like and a lot of people told me that one of the things they lack is the Injera (traditional bread of the Ethiopian community), which is part of the foundation of our community. So I published a post on social media asking my followers to help prepare injera for the evacuees and there was a huge turnout,” shared Esther.

Amira and Esther at the Park Hotel | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Esther is grateful for the opportunity to help immigrants now displaced by the war. “I spoke with one of the evacuees and he told me that suddenly after one night in Netanya, he realized what a difficult situation they were facing and being here allows them to breathe easier,” she recounted. “I’m really thankful to be able to contribute and be here for them.”

Meanwhile, at The Jewish Agency’s Ramat Hadassah Szold Youth Village southeast of Haifa, a logistics center was opened into which endless donations flow from all over the country. The village team, students and the residents of the area from Mevanon and all the nearby settlements are working around the clock to organize the items and transport them to the required areas.

In Belgium, Harel, our Shaliach (Israeli emissary), got the community to come together to package equipment for Israeli soldiers. Each soldier received a box containing helpful items from food to clothes and more.

So many Jewish communities worldwide have come together to organize and purchase supplies for Israeli soldiers and countless Israelis and others visiting Israel have volunteered to help within the country, from donating items including breastmilk and meals to lending their expertise as medical and tech professionals, chefs, and more. The Jewish Agency is doing all we can to assist those impacted by the war and recruiting additional volunteers for educational activities, staff reinforcement and emotional support for immigrants and refugees.

To support The Jewish Agency’s emergency efforts and Fund for Victims of Terror, donate here.

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Fund for Victims of Terror Providing Support Amid War

elanagoodwin — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:48:55 +0000

Fund for Victims of Terror Providing Support Amid War

With so many Israelis killed and injured, and countless homes and buildings damaged, The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror is operating on a wider scale than ever before.

October 13, 2023

Fund for Victims of Terror Providing Support Amid War

With so many Israelis killed and injured, and countless homes and buildings damaged, The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror is operating on a wider scale than ever before.

October 13, 2023

Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog visits Avi Shachar, who was injured by terrorists | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Since Israel was attacked by Hamas on October 7, The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT) has been working overtime. The Fund, often the first responder for families and individuals impacted by terror, distributes immediate grants within 24-48 hours of a direct attack, offering support for short-term needs and helping with long-term rehabilitation and post-trauma care. During the ongoing war in Israel, we have been collaborating with Social Services, Hospitals, and Municipalities, and disbursing critical financial assistance to so many.

On October 9, The Jewish Agency took Jewish Federations of North America President and CEO Eric Fingerhut and UJA-Federation of New York CEO Eric Goldstein to Barzilai Medical Center, in the heavily hit city of Ashkelon just eight miles north of the border with Gaza. There, the two CEOs showed their support on behalf of the FVOT to the hundreds of severely wounded Israelis who are being treated at the hospital. The North American Jewish leaders visited with the injured along with FVOT Chair Ayelet Nahmias Verbin, extending both emotional and financial support to the victims and their families.

On October 10, representatives of the Fund visited the Shamir Medical Center in Tel Aviv to support Ronen (Ronnie) Gabay and his family. Ronen serves as the Sderot Community Coordinator of Ongoing Security with the Israel Defense Forces. He was among the first on the scene on Shabbat morning, and he and the unit he commands, together with his brother-in-law, Yair Avinoam, fought off the terrorists at close range. Under intense gunfire, they both carried out heroic rescues. Ronnie saved a policeman under attack and Yair rescued two small girls whose parents had been shot point blank in their car with the girls inside. Ronnie has complex gunshot wounds to his shoulder and shrapnel wounds to his legs. His sisters, Sarit and Dganit, are not leaving his side. They are not able at this time to go back to Sderot.

Arizona lay leaders visit a wounded Israeli in the hospital | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Ronnie and Yair were visited by three lay leaders from Phoenix, Arizona; Jonathan Hoffer (husband of Chair of the JAFINA Board, Rachel Hoffer), Jason Morris and Steve Hilton. The three were supposed to lead a group of 20 young adults on an Israel trip but the group had to cancel. Jonathan, Jason and Steve decided they would not only come, but do all they could to help. They brought gifts, encouraged the wounded and their families, and thanked Yair and Ronnie for their incredible heroism.

Also on October 10, Jewish Agency Chairman Doron Almog spent time with injured Israelis in the hospital who have received aid from the Fund. Avi Shahar, the father of our San Diego ShinShin (service year Israeli emissary) Yarden, was wounded along with his son, Zohar, 14, by terrorist gunfire on Shabbat. Doron visited them at the Wolfson Medical Center in Holon near Tel Aviv, where he was amazed by their strength as they recovered from surgery. While there, Doron also met with Hila, the Director of the Sderot Resilience Center, and Idit, Avi’s wife and Zohar and Yarden’s mom, who also works for the Sderot Resilience Center. Everyone wanted to thank all the people of The Jewish Agency and the Fund for Victims of Terror for their support.

Chairman Doron Almog visits an injured policeman | Photo: The Jewish Agency

Later that day, Doron visited an injured policeman in the hospital, who was part of the first force that entered a home in Ofakim where hostages were being held.

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The Jewish Agency to Provide NIS 10 Million in Immediate Emergency Aid to Gaza Border Communities

elanagoodwin — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:13:06 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

The Jewish Agency to Provide NIS 10 Million in Immediate Emergency Aid to Gaza Border Communities

PRESS RELEASE

The Jewish Agency to Provide NIS 10 Million in Immediate Emergency Aid to Gaza Border Communities

Jerusalem, October 13, 2023 — The Jewish Agency for Israel announced today an immediate emergency aid fund totaling NIS 10 million to assist Gaza border communities in rehabilitation following the devastation incurred during the war.

The aid will be used for humanitarian needs, in accordance with the professional judgment of the local municipal authorities and the specific needs of each area. The distribution of aid will begin this coming Sunday.

This emergency aid granted by The Jewish Agency to Gaza border communities is in addition to the direct aid provided to individuals who suffered injury to their person or property by The Jewish Agency’s Fund for the Victims of Terror.

Jewish Agency Chairman Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog said: “I just spoke with the heads of the communities on the Gaza border. I updated them about the new emergency aid fund set up by The Jewish Agency on behalf of the entire Jewish people. Our mission is to start acting now to support the heroic survivors who lost their family members, their homes and property and provide them with support and assistance in these difficult times. The transfer of the grants will begin this Sunday.”

The Jewish Agency, together with its partners at the Jewish Federations of North America and Keren Hayesod, will provide assistance on behalf of the entire Jewish people to the following local councils and cities: Eshkol Regional Council, Shaar HaNegev Regional Council, Sdot Negev Regional Council, Hof Ashkelon Regional Council, Merhavim Regional Council, Sderot, Netivot and Ofakim.

Media Contact:
Jake Sharfman, J Cubed Communications
Jake@JCubedPr.com
248-515-3853

About The Jewish Agency for Israel:

Since 1929, The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future. It was instrumental in founding and building the State of Israel and continues to serve as the main link between the Jewish state and Jewish communities everywhere. This global partnership has enabled it to address the Jewish People’s greatest challenges in every generation. Today, the Jewish Agency connects the global Jewish family, bringing Jews to Israel, and Israel to Jews, by providing meaningful Israel engagement and facilitating Aliyah. It also strives to build a better society in Israel – and beyond – energizing young Israelis and their worldwide peers to rediscover a collective sense of Jewish purpose. The Jewish Agency continues to be the Jewish world’s first responder, prepared to address emergencies in Israel, and to rescue Jews from countries where they are at risk.

The post The Jewish Agency to Provide NIS 10 Million in Immediate Emergency Aid to Gaza Border Communities appeared first on The Jewish Agency for Israel - U.S..

Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror Receives $5 Million Private Donation

elanagoodwin — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:41:20 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror Receives $5 Million Private Donation

The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror received a $5 million donation, its largest ever private donation, from Julia and Yuri Milner’s Breakthrough Foundation, which will ensure that the Fund can provide essential support on both an immediate and long-term basis to all of the current war’s victims.

PRESS RELEASE

Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror Receives $5 Million Private Donation

The Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror received a $5 million donation, its largest ever private donation, from Julia and Yuri Milner’s Breakthrough Foundation, which will ensure that the Fund can provide essential support on both an immediate and long-term basis to all of the current war’s victims.

Jerusalem, October 11, 2023 — With Israel at war, The Jewish Agency for Israel’s Fund for the Victims of Terror has received a $5 million donation from the Breakthrough Foundations established by Israeli philanthropists Julia and Yuri Milner, representing the largest-ever single gift to the Fund.

The Fund for Victims of Terror, created in 2002 during the Second Lebanon War, has been largely funded by The Jewish Agency’s two major partners, Jewish Federations of North America and Keren Hayesod. Currently, every single individual who suffers either injuries or property damage in a terror attack receives a $1,200 check from the Fund for immediate needs. The Fund also provides long-term rehabilitation grants in the amount of $6,300 per person for up to three years as well as ongoing support to the victims as they navigate the days after an attack. Further, the Fund is assisting the communities evacuated from the Gaza border in securing the support they need.

“The immense generosity of Julia and Yuri Milner will ensure that The Jewish Agency and its Fund for the Victims of Terror can provide indispensable support to all victims of this war,” said Amira Ahronoviz, CEO and Director General of The Jewish Agency. “When tragedy strikes and the future looks uncertain, the emotional toll is unimaginable. Now more than ever, the Fund will be a lifeline to survivors and their family members not only in their immediate period of dire need but also on a long-term basis, through ongoing care along the road to recovery.”

The charitable foundations established by Julia and Yuri Milner are dedicated to advancing fundamental knowledge, celebrating scientific achievement, and supporting scientific and technological innovations to improve people’s lives and inspire future generations. The foundations have funded several programs supporting science, medicine, and technological innovation in Israel. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, the foundations donated both funds and health supplies to Israel, including $3 million for Israeli institutions working to prevent the spread of the then-novel coronavirus as well as the purchase of 3 million surgical masks.

“Julia and I are devastated by horrific attacks on innocent civilians,” Yuri Milner said. “We hope that these funds will support the professional teams tending to the trauma and injuries of women, men and children who have suffered so much.”

Yuri Milner is an Israeli technology investor and science philanthropist. He started investing in the Internet in 1999 and in 2009 founded DST Global, one of the leading Internet investment firms globally with offices in Silicon Valley, New York, London, Beijing, and Hong Kong. He has a degree in theoretical physics and attended the Wharton MBA program.

Julia Milner studied painting and photography. Her internet project “Click I Hope” was exhibited at the 52nd Venice Biennale of Contemporary Art in 2007. Most recently, she has focused all her efforts on raising her three daughters and the development of charitable foundations.

Media Contact:
Noa Amouyal, J Cubed Communications
058-784-8148
Noa@JCubedPr.com

About The Jewish Agency for Israel:

Since 1929, The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future. It was instrumental in founding and building the State of Israel and continues to serve as the main link between the Jewish state and Jewish communities everywhere. This global partnership has enabled it to address the Jewish People’s greatest challenges in every generation. Today, the Jewish Agency connects the global Jewish family, bringing Jews to Israel, and Israel to Jews, by providing meaningful Israel engagement and facilitating Aliyah. It also strives to build a better society in Israel – and beyond – energizing young Israelis and their worldwide peers to rediscover a collective sense of Jewish purpose. The Jewish Agency continues to be the Jewish world’s first responder, prepared to address emergencies in Israel, and to rescue Jews from countries where they are at risk.

The post Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror Receives $5 Million Private Donation appeared first on The Jewish Agency for Israel - U.S..

Jewish Population Rises to 15.7 Million Worldwide in 2023

elanagoodwin — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 14:39:08 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

Jewish Population Rises to 15.7 Million Worldwide in 2023

On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Jewish population rises to 15.7 million worldwide, with over 7.2 million residing in Israel

PRESS RELEASE

Jewish Population Rises to 15.7 Million Worldwide in 2023

On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Jewish population rises to 15.7 million worldwide, with over 7.2 million residing in Israel

Chairman of The Jewish Agency Major General (Res.) Doron Almog with olim who immigrated to Israel last year from around the world. Credit: Guy Yechiely.

Jerusalem, September 15, 2023 — On the eve of the Jewish new year, the number of Jews worldwide stands at approximately 15.7 million compared to 15.6 million in the previous year, according to newly released statistics from The Jewish Agency for Israel.

Among the global Jewish population, the number of Jews in Israel is 7,200,000, an increase from 7,080,00 last year. Meanwhile, about 8.5 million live outside Israel, with approximately 6.3 million of them living in the United States. These figures come from renowned Jewish demographic expert Professor Sergio DellaPergola of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and will be published in the American Jewish Year Book 2023. The figure for the U.S. was revised after in-depth study of the data from the last Pew Research Center survey.

Adjustments were made to last year’s estimates that are in line with newly released data, including the results of national censuses in several countries with significant Jewish populations. For example, the estimates for Russia and Ukraine were revised according to the significant migration that followed the hostilities in the region.

The Jewish population numbers refer to persons who define themselves as Jews by religion or otherwise and who do not identify with another religion. The total number of Jews and persons who would potentially be eligible for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return from around the world rose to 25.5 million people, of which 7.7 million are in Israel and 18 million live outside Israel. There are currently over 500,000 Israelis who became citizens under the Law of Return but are not registered as Jews with Israel’s Population Authority.

The proportion of Jews living in Israel stands at 46%, an increase of one-half percent over the previous year’s adjusted data.

The following are updated Jewish population figures from countries with a significant Jewish population as of January 2023. These figures reflect the core Jewish community and not those eligible for Aliyah under the Law of Return:

France: 440,000
Canada: 398,000
United Kingdom: 312,000
Argentina: 171,000
Russia: 132,000
Australia: 117,200
Germany: 125,000
Brazil: 90,000
South Africa: 50,000
Hungary: 46,000
Ukraine: 33,000
Mexico: 40,000
The Netherlands: 29,700
Belgium: 29,000
Italy: 26,900
Switzerland: 20,500
Uruguay: 16,200
Chile: 15,700
Sweden: 14,900
Turkey: 14,200
Spain: 13,000
Austria: 10,300
Panama: 10,000

Another 80 countries have Jewish populations of more than 100 but less than 10,000. About 27,000 Jews live in Arab and Muslim countries, of which 14,200 live in Turkey, 9,100 in Iran, 2,100 in Morocco, 1,000 in Tunisia, and 500 in the Emirates

Chairman of The Jewish Agency Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog said: “The Jewish people gather at holiday tables around the world that may be geographically distant from one another, but the partnership and the deep connection between us bridge the distance. Our great challenge at this time is to connect all parts of the Jewish people, to bring our hearts closer together. My wish for the Jewish people around the world and the citizens of Israel is for a year of unity and of healing the rifts that will ensure the continued prosperity and security of the State of Israel and the Jewish people. The Jewish Agency will continue to work together with its partners at the World Zionist Organization, the Jewish Federations and Keren Hayesod for the common future of the entire Jewish people, to fulfill its role as a unifying organization that works to continue Aliyah, strengthen the relationship between Israel and the Jewish communities, and strengthen Israeli society.”

Media Contact:
Noa Amouyal, J Cubed Communications
Noa@jcubedpr.com
058.784.8148

About The Jewish Agency for Israel:

Since 1929, The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future. It was instrumental in founding and building the State of Israel and continues to serve as the main link between the Jewish state and Jewish communities everywhere. This global partnership has enabled it to address the Jewish People’s greatest challenges in every generation. Today, the Jewish Agency connects the global Jewish family, bringing Jews to Israel, and Israel to Jews, by providing meaningful Israel engagement and facilitating Aliyah. It also strives to build a better society in Israel – and beyond – energizing young Israelis and their worldwide peers to rediscover a collective sense of Jewish purpose. The Jewish Agency continues to be the Jewish world’s first responder, prepared to address emergencies in Israel, and to rescue Jews from countries where they are at risk.

The post Jewish Population Rises to 15.7 Million Worldwide in 2023 appeared first on The Jewish Agency for Israel - U.S..

Building Relationships & A New Life In Israel

elanagoodwin — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:21:34 +0000

Building Relationships & A New Life In Israel

Gregory’s experience at Kibbutz Ulpan Yagur, a program sponsored by Masa Israel Journey, helped him develop critical Hebrew skills and make lasting friendships as he settled into life in Israel.

Building Relationships & A New Life In Israel

Gregory’s experience at Kibbutz Ulpan Yagur, a program sponsored by Masa Israel Journey, helped him develop critical Hebrew skills and make lasting friendships as he settled into life in Israel.

Gregory in Israel | Photo provided by Gregory

Born in Belarus, Gregory, 27, studied technical engineering at a university in St. Petersburg, Russia. He worked as an engineer for some time in St. Petersburg and Minsk before the Russia-Ukraine war started, prompting him to move to Israel.

“I’d been thinking about making Aliyah since 2017 but never did because it was a big decision as I’d be moving alone and I always had reasons to not do it before,” explained Gregory. “But then with the war, even though it wasn’t necessarily felt in everyday life in Belarus, the economy was definitely impacted and it still was influencing our lives. So the war acted as a trigger for me to finally make Aliyah now, even though I left all my family and friends behind.”

Gregory moved to Israel in July 2022 and opted to participate in The Jewish Agency’s ulpan at Kibbutz Yagur, a Masa Israel Journey-sponsored program. The five-month immersive Kibbutz Ulpan Yagur near Haifa provides global participants with the opportunity to learn Hebrew while living, working on the kibbutz, or interning or volunteering outside the kibbutz.

“I’m really glad I chose Kibbutz Yagur when I was trying to decide which ulpan program would be best for me; it was a really good option and I got to live with people from all over the world and the staff were so welcoming,” Gregory shared. “In fact, I ended up staying not just for one cohort session but doing another half year with a second cohort.”

Before coming to Israel, Gregory had no Hebrew skills and didn’t even know the Hebrew alphabet. Now, after two sessions of ulpan, he has gained second-level Hebrew abilities. His part-time job as a bartender also helped him develop a better grasp of the language.

“Besides learning Hebrew, the program also arranged incredible trips for us around Israel which really helped us connect with each other and to Israel and our Jewish identities. They helped us understand and experience Israel as a local and gave us new perspectives,” said Gregory. “Before the program, I wasn’t so into Jewish traditions and holidays but then during ulpan, we did all these trips and events and activities together, even Shabbat dinners, which were really nice and helped us bond.”

Today, Gregory is starting university in Be’er Sheva where he will study program engineering for a master’s degree and also keep studying Hebrew, and is grateful for his time and the friends he made at ulpan.

“I became good friends with many of the other participants from ulpan and we’ve really been supporting each other and helping each other feel more comfortable getting settled. Especially since I came to Israel alone, it was important for me to build relationships,” added Gregory. “And The Jewish Agency assisted me a lot, I only have good things to say about how they made my whole Aliyah process – which can be stressful – way easier.”

Learn more about our absorption and Ulpan programs for young adults

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