Harvesting Kindness: Israel's Asylum Seekers

Saturday, September 2, 2023

“If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves among you, help them as you would a foreigner and stranger, so they can continue to live among you."

Lev. 25:35

Dear Friend,

With Rosh Hashana approaching on September 15th, we find ourselves in a season of reflection, celebration, and renewal. It's a time to sound the trumpets and bring joy to many hearts.

This past August, we've been hard at work not only providing aid to the poor but also honoring families in need. Through our efforts, 1500 families received gift cards for the holidays, helping them enjoy a festive season without worry.

Yet our compassion extends beyond our local community. We've provided thousands of first-grade children, including those of refugees and asylum seekers in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with backpacks for the new school year. Over one hundred children received new backpacks, through our collaboration with Mesila, a unique welfare unit in Tel Aviv designated to help refugees and asylum seekers in Israel, and the Jerusalem welfare department.

The stories we heard of the asylum seekers are truly heart-wrenching. One of them is R., a single mother from Eritrea and a victim of human trafficking. Her son will start the school year with a new school bag, thanks to your generosity.

In a thank you letter that we received, the Mesila rep pointed out the great kindness, professionalism, and compassion of the VFI team both during the initial connection and during the distribution itself. Yoni and Assaf, our valued team members, welcomed the parents and children and didn’t let them feel like they were needy for even a single moment. For that, the Mesila team thanked us.

But our work is far from over. About 30,000 asylum seekers and people without status live in Tel Aviv-Jaffa and 3,000 in Jerusalem. They live in poverty and often go without essential services due to their unique status. Sadly, this population is often overlooked and we are honored to have the opportunity to support them.

We invite you to join us in our mission. Let your heart be moved by their stories, and extend your hand in kindness and compassion.

Please visit our website: www.visionforisrael.com to make a donation and make a real difference in the lives of those who are suffering.

As we approach Rosh Hashana, may we heed the call to care for the poor, the hungry, and the stranger among us. Together, we can live the values that God has commanded us.