The Jewish community is still mourning the thousands in Israel who have been murdered, injured and are being held hostage. Yet, in the face of adversity, the Jewish community remains resilient and united. Now is the time for collective action and to stand together to support our Jewish homeland. This FedFive is dedicated to what you can do today to help those in need in Israel.

“We must condemn the horrific acts of war perpetrated by Hamas and their enablers.” - Governor Josh Shaprio at the Philly Stands with Israel Rally on October 9.

In times like these, it is critical to be an advocate. You can be the voice for the voiceless by contacting your member of congress and our senators and thank them for their support. Ask them to continue being a strong voice in support of Israel and to push for resources, urging your elected leaders to stand with Israel by clicking here.

“In today’s 24/7 communication-driven landscape, the rapid spread of misinformation is a stark reality. The Jewish Federation continues to underscore the importance of being  informed  and sifting fact from fiction to be a better advocate, especially in times of crisis.” - Director of JCRC Jason Holtzman

As the situation progresses and our emotions run high, it can be tempting to immediately comment on and/or share what we see online. But now, more than ever, it’s important for us to take the time to carefully assess what we’re reading and respond thoughtfully. You can find guidelines on combating disinformation here. 

“We have a deep and long connection with our partnership regions. They are a part of our family, our mishpacha. While sending a message may seem small, it is a powerful reminder that we are here for them.”
- Associate Director of Israel and Global Strategies Beth Razin

As the situation progresses and our emotions run high, it can be tempting to immediately comment on and/or share what we see online. But now, more than ever, it’s important for us to take the time to carefully assess what we’re reading and respond thoughtfully. You can learn more and submit messages here.

“In the two weeks following the initial attack, we had over 10,000 community members come out in solidarity with Israel through vigils, rallies and marches. The Greater Philadelphia Jewish community is showing the world that we stand with Israel.”
- Senior Chief of External Affairs Jeffrey Lasday

The Jewish Federation will continue to convene and mobilize the community with programs and resources during this crisis. You can learn what is happening in your community and discover tools for you and your family by visiting our community resource page.

Thanks to our generous community, we have raised $8.8 million of our $10.025 million fundraising goal for the Philly Stands With Israel Fund. We have distributed over $2.4 million to help Netivot and Sdot Negev residents and other communities with basic needs, emergency equipment for volunteer first responders, bomb shelters, supplies for the bomb shelters, and more.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund for their dollar-for-dollar match of up to $25,000 for the Philly Stands with Israel emergency fund, which allowed us to exceed and nearly triple our target during the rally on Monday, October 16. You can help us meet our goal of $10.25 million by clicking here.

Avi Lurie, who grew up locally and is a graduate of Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, was called from the IDF reserves to fight in Israel. Lurie shared a message of strength and gratitude with Greater Philadelphia, speaking about the conditions in Israel right now and the impact of your support.

Hear his story here. 

 Amichai Shdemah, a local community member, shared a powerful, heart-wrenching story at the Jewish Federation’s Philly Stands with Israel Rally on October 9. His step-mother, who is 84 years old, is missing and believed to have been kidnapped by Hamas and abducted to Gaza.

Hear his story here.