Dear friends,

Our purpose at Vision for Israel is vast. We aim to help our neighbors in many ways and ensure that our communities have what they need. Perhaps the most significant way that we help our communities is by acting as stewards between donors and recipients. This service is key to giving. Many people feel shame when they receive charity, while others feel proud and egotistical when they give. Our job is to facilitate a shame-free, modest exchange of aid. It is in this way that we best serve God.

This idea brought about a moving story I (Batya) once heard.

Yosef's father had a neighborhood grocery store. He would make fresh yogurt to sell, and needed dozens of glass jars to put his yogurt in. Every day a man would come around selling jars, and Yosef's father would always buy from him, always making sure to pay a fair price.

One day, Yosef saw that the seller was walking up and down the street, collecting jars and putting them in his basket. This was the same basket of jars that he would bring to Yosef’s father to buy.

Yosef was so upset when he saw this, and said to his father, "I saw him pick up jars on the street and sell them to you." Yosef’s father silenced him and said, “Quiet, not now. Don’t speak". And Yosef went on to say, "But Abba (father) he is selling you something he found on the street."

When there were no people in the grocery store, Yosef’s father said to him, “My son, do not shame a man for his actions in public. He is doing what he can to survive, and this is how he makes his income. Everything is fine. I know where the jars come from, and I gladly give him the money. Never embarrass a person in front of others.”

The Jewish principle of Matan Baseter (giving in secret) fits this story perfectly. The Sephardic Jewish philosopher, Maimonides, is famous for articulating eight distinctive levels of charitable giving. Giving anonymously occupies a high position; the second level of giving is "where the donor doesn't know to whom he gives and the recipient doesn't know from whom he receives". 

The key to true, heartfelt giving is modesty. It’s important to be humble, and give of yourself without wanting praise or attention in return; we must do good for the sake of serving God and our communities. The second, and perhaps most important part of serving others, is ensuring that those you serve don’t feel embarrassed or subordinate.

Here at Vision for Israel, we facilitate Matan Baseter for our donors and communities. We act as the conduit for double-blind giving. You, our donors, are able to give freely and modestly, while our recipients don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed of their poverty.

God loves all his people equally. When you take the time to give modestly, you participate in Matan Baseter. The Bible says: 

The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the maker of them all.

Our status in life does not matter in the eyes of God. Remember this when you perform acts of service, and help those in need. As we say at Vision for Israel, all are equal, and all deserve dignity and respect. 

To give anonymously and participate in the Matan Baseter that we administrate, we have many opportunities to do so. You may find them here. 

May the Lord bless and keep you as you serve the needy.


Your friends,
Barry & Batya Segal

Are you willing to bless Israel, make a difference in the lives of people, and partner with God's plan for restoration of the land of Israel?

When performing acts of service, it’s important to make sure we do them for the right reasons. Our status in life does not matter in the eyes of God. 

Giving for the Right Reasons | Blog | Vision for Israel

Last month, our team at Vision for Israel hosted a Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebration for young adults who have suffered from terror attacks. By throwing a party, we allowed them to celebrate this major milestone when they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. Though they all have touching and tragic stories, one of the Bar Mitzvah boys, Ya’ir, had a story that stood out to us. He gave a speech at the President's house during the celebration. We wanted to share his story with you.

Though he is now 13, Ya’ir was injured in Sderot when he was 9. That dayhe went to a protected park in Sderot withhis mother and sisters. Ya'ir played with his friends in one area of the park while his sisters played in another area, and his mother sat with the other mothers. All of a sudden, a Code Red alarm sounded and all the children started running in panic. Because he was so young, Ya'ir didn't know what to do. He searched for his mother and could not find her. He began to cry, running everywhere to try and find her. Because of this, he did not have time to get into the mobile shelter. As he looked skyward, he saw the interceptions and heard the terrifying booms of the attack.

Although Ya’ir didn't suffer any physical harm, he was mentally injured. Any loud noise, like a plane in the sky or a motorcycle passing by, causes a stress reaction. He can’t shower without the door open, and can’t stay home alone because of his condition. Doctors believe that this is likely a case of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

At first, Ya'ir's mother struggled to identify Ya’ir’s condition. However, after talking with her friends and hearing that their children suffered similar conditions after rocket attacks, she decided to get help for her son.

There were times before Ya'ir was injured that his mother went for a walk with the children where there wasn't a protected area. During these walks, if a Code Red siren sounded, Ya’ir’s mother would lay her children on the ground and lie down on top of them. Ya’ir will no longer go for these walks. His sisters are similarly hesitant, though they aren’t as traumatized as Ya’ir is. Not being able to find one’s mother in a time of crisis is truly traumatic.

Though Ya’ir’s story touched our hearts, it is unfortunately not the only such story we’ve heard. Thousands of children are terrorized every day by the violence and terror that surrounds Israel. Childhood wonder and freedom are being stripped away, as these children see how brutal and terrifying the world can be. Many of them are forced to grow up faster than they should.

Our mission at Vision for Israel is to protect as many of these children as possible. We have been providing mobile bomb shelters so that more people have access to protection. We offer food and financial support to families who have experienced terrorism. We even host Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations annually to ensure that these children have some happiness in their young lives.

All of the work that we do is made possible by you, our friends and sponsors. Without your regular donations and generous gifts, children like Ya’ir would define their lives only by violence, terrorism, and pain. Because of you, they can receive a bit of happiness and comfort despite what has happened to them.

As we enter 2022, please consider beginning or increasing your donation to Vision for Israel. It is because of our donors that we can support so many in need. If you wish to make a donation, you may do so here. We also accept Crypto, bank transfers, and many other alternative ways to donate.  

May we be able to continue our work into this new year, and may the Lord bless and keep you.


Your friends,
Barry & Batya Segal


Ya’ir has experienced incredible pain and suffering in his young life, but we were able to give him a Bar Mitzvah celebration. This is his story.

A Miraculous Milestone: Ya’ir’s Story | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Miraculous Milestone: Ya’ir’s Story

Dear friends,

As many of you know, our organization helps a variety of different people in different stages of life. You also likely know the number of day-to-day tasks and activities that go into making Vision for Israel work. Sometimes, volunteers handle these tasks, while other times Barry or myself shoulder the responsibility. Some years ago, one of these tasks turned into a wonderful chance encounter.

For months, our accountants had been trying to take care of a number of documents from the government’s public non-profit institution division. There was no response from this government office for some time, and we began to feel desperate. I decided to simply go to the office during reception hours and get the required documents.

I arrived and was the last in line. When it was my turn, the girl at the counter called me to approach the desk. She asked me who I was and what service I needed. I mentioned my name and the name of our organization. I saw that her expression changed when she heard my answer.

The truth is, I was worried. I thought maybe something was wrong. Then she asked: “What is your role?” I explained that my husband and I had founded the organization and I also now serve as the general manager. She excused herself and left for a few minutes.

When she came back I saw tears in her eyes. She began to tell me her story.

“A few years ago, my husband and I were in a very difficult time. I was with newborn baby twins, without an income, and in my distress, I turned to you for help. I will never forget your organization’s representatives who came to my house. At the time I was at the lowest point in my life and the staff members arrived with so much quality equipment and humanitarian assistance that I stood at the door with tears of joy in my eyes... You were like rays of light that came at a dark time in my life. You brought me joy knowing that there are people here who care for me and about me.”

Her story moved me deeply and brought me a deep sense of accomplishment and joy. This is exactly why Barry and I established VFI—to bring light to the lives of people who are experiencing difficulty. 

I did not hide my joy, and we agreed to stay in touch. It struck me that in the past, she needed my help while now it was my turn to ask for her help with the day-to-day tasks of the organization. VFI is a wheel that never stops turning, and only God can bring us into situations where we meet special people at unexpected times. I knew that this was one of those special people.

When I came out of this unexpected encounter, I realized one thing: there is no limit to the happy surprises God puts in our lives. I entered the office worried and left with a sense of satisfaction and joy. The situation with the paperwork happened because I was supposed to go to this government office at this time and place to meet Orly.

Stories like these are why we do what we do. Our purpose is to help people when they are in dark times and walk with them into God’s light. Our volunteers and partners make this possible. Without your love and support, who knows where Orly would be today? You have a direct impact on families going through tough times, and that is important work.

We are so grateful for all you have done, and all you continue to do. May the Lord bless and keep you.


Your friends, 
Batya and Barry Segal


We are excited to see the impact of your donations. A chance encounter with Orly proved how big of a difference you can make, and how God’s grace comes full circle.

Your Service in Action | Blog | Vision for Israel

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Over the last three months, our efforts have been focused on providing basic essentials and prepaid gift cards to families in need throughout the land of Israel. Here are some highlights from our recent activities.

This has been an amazing summer. We have been hard at work helping anyone and everyone that we can and spreading God’s light throughout our community. Though we know that this work has amazing effects, sometimes it really strikes us how much of an impact we can make through God and our donors and friends.

Imagine all the 275,000 children who were the recipients of VFI’s school bags over the years coming together to shout “thank you!” The sound would be tremendous. It is this reality that keeps us going.

It warms our hearts when we interact with these children and their parents. Their joy and laughter at our events bring out the children in us too, something that is rare and cherished as the years pass. Through the eyes of these children and their smiles, we can relive our own childhoods. Our ability to help them attend school and gain education is nothing but a blessing. 

In August, we donated two more vehicles to MDA (Magen David Adom): a bloodmobile, and a mobile intensive care unit ambulance (MICU). The dedication event was heartfelt and meaningful, full of sincere speeches and gratitude. So far, over 30,000 emergency responses have occurred with all the vehicles that we have donated. Saving lives and saving people is what it is all about!

“This is a day we dreamed of seeing since Vision for Israel was founded and began 27 years ago. Not only being able to save lives when needed, but to serve the community around us and all Israel. It gives us the privilege to serve, providing hope and strength in any time of need for emergency services provided by Magen David Adom. We do not just believe in miracles and visions but in their coming to fulfillment." 

Every year, the weeks before the Jewish High Holidays are especially busy for us at Vision for Israel. One of VFI’s main activities is the distribution of magnetic gift cards to low-income families, the elderly, Holocaust survivors, new immigrants, terror survivors, and lone soldiers.

Many times, a gift card means the world to them, especially in preparation for the holidays. This time of year means more expenses and more preparation for family meals and celebrations. Our magnetic gift cards help to ease financial stress and help families to celebrate the High Holidays properly. 

We held a ceremony at the Millennium Center for 52 terror survivor students and their families. The students received scholarships to help them with their higher education. There was a moving speech and beautiful music. The latter was performed by a musician who lost both his parents in an act of terrorism.

Giving scholarships brought intense joy to many of these students, and allowed us to help to ease some of the pain and hardship that they carry. 

Protection is Here!  Mobile Bomb Shelters 

When the rockets were falling on us, we found ourselves praying for God's intervention. Our prayers—and our appeals to you, our faithful partners—have been answered. Thanks to your generous participation and faith in our work and in God, we have now ordered enough shelters and locking systems for the first stage of our goal.

We are so incredibly grateful to have received a donation of 1,020 new pairs of denim overalls from the Netherlands.

Our team at Vision for Israel donates the clothing we receive to needy families. We also give to children’s homes and at-risk children, as well as young people with unique emotional and cognitive needs. Our donors in this arena have always been so generous, and we are continually grateful. 

Hunger does not only exist during the holiday season, so we work with food donations all year long. Our wonderful volunteers have helped us pack hundreds of baskets during every donation event. We then distribute the baskets along with magnetic cards for purchasing food at the major food chains. Dozens of families come to various centers across the country to receive the assistance. We work in collaboration with the welfare departments to locate the people who need help the most. This month, our team distributed food baskets in Neve Yaakov in Jerusalem and Rishon Lezion. We see these baskets making a huge difference for some families, and all of them are so grateful to our donors for making our work possible.

It's always good when our partnerships with organizations and nonprofits expand. Recently we sorted and packed lots of items to donate to charities. Among the objects were clothing and shoes, medical equipment, tools, housewares, undergarments, bedding, school bags, and more. The organizations that receive the donations address important issues in Israeli society, such as helping minorities, rescue and disaster relief, combating domestic violence, and helping school dropouts.

With the help of our partner organizations, we can reach out to more and more people in need.

As we do every year, this winter we will hold a festive event for dozens of bar and bat mitzvah boys and girls from families affected by terrorist attacks. We do this together with other organizations that represent the victims of hostilities and terrorism.

The work begins months in advance, as we plan and improve our methods. All of us are very excited and hope to hold a moving, significant, and memorable event this year for these dear children, who have endured more in the past few years than many of us have in our whole lives.

We are so grateful to our partners, donors, and friends who make all of the above possible. There are truly no words to express the great impact you can have on these communities and families. If you have not already, you can take part in all these exciting life-changing experiences by pledging monthly donations to Vision for Israel. Our work is never-ending, and every donation helps us to spread God’s love and word across Israel.

Over the past quarter, we have succeeded in helping hundreds of families and individuals in different ways. Thanks to our donors, we can continue to spread God’s love. 

Impact Report—November 2021 | Blog | Vision for Israel

As you know, our team is constantly serving our community. Whether we are giving backpacks to children or funding medical vehicles, God’s work through you is ongoing.

The delivery of aid to families this week was particularly interesting. We took supplies and food baskets to about 50 families in downtown Jerusalem. The baskets were heavy, and there were no safe spaces to park and unload. In the end, we had to recruit willing passersby to distribute the baskets to the waiting families. Though it was no small job, these people responded to our pleaand helped us carry the baskets to the distribution point.

Families gathered their baskets, thanked us, and went home to cook their meals. However, while we were distributing we received a call from a woman. She was on our list to receive a food basket, but she had a special request. She could not take any dry food, only fresh and ready-to-eat items. This is because she was recently evicted from her home, and had taken to living in a nearby park. She had no stove to cook on, no kitchen to prepare anything in, and no hope of returning to her home. Her financial situation would prevent her from moving back in. We were able to bless her with a gift card so she could purchase food items that fit her situation.

God works in mysterious ways. This woman became a reminder from Him that every person we meet is facing a unique and personal struggle. Though we are all human, we all have different problems and issues to overcome. While we can’t pretend to understand this woman’s experience with homelessness, our heart goes out to her and her family.

This work can be difficult, but we are constantly encouraged by the fact that our service and our gifts truly mean something. Your help allowed this woman to eat and gave her a basic necessity that she had otherwise been denied. Anything we can do, any kindness we can extend, makes a difference. When we walk in God’s light and do good in His name, we make the world a better place.


We delivered food baskets to families this week and we realized the impact of acts of kindness. We must find ways to bring God’s love into everything we do.

Food Baskets for the Needy | Blog | Vision for Israel

But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 

Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe, but we have once again arrived at Rosh Hashanah. And as you probably already know, it’s a very special time—a holy time set aside to reflect on the year past and to ground ourselves in preparation for Yom Kippur. It’s a time of renewal, and of deep reflection as we look at our relationship with God and with the people in our lives over the past year. 

Especially during the High Holidays, God is asking us to remember the poorest among us and lift them up in any way that we can.

“For there will never cease to be poor people in the land. Therefore I am commanding you, saying, ‘You must surely open your hand to your brother—to your needy and poor in your land.’”

This has never been more necessary, as our world is constantly plagued with violence, disease, and loss of faith. The poor among us have suffered more than we can know—not only undergoing a pandemic as we have—but living in poverty and with food and housing insecurity. 

When considering the poor, we must make sure that we are humble, and that we put ourselves in a place of service. In order to truly care for the poor, we must acknowledge that we are no better than they are. We are equal in the eyes of God, so we must understand that the poor are our brethren and our peers. 

Remember, Yeshua walked the earth with humility. He aligned Himself with the lowly, the poor, and the sinner. In like manner, God’s grace is found in all walks of life. 

During this time of reflection, we should also consider why we give alms. When performing acts of mercy, we remember that we do so because our Lord has been generous and merciful to us. We did nothing to earn His love and reward, yet He gives it to us unconditionally. So we also must turn to our brothers and sisters in need, and help them with mercy and generosity. No human being needs to earn the Lord’s love, and neither should they have to earn grace from their earthly peers. 

By caring for the weakest and the least fortunate among us, we infuse our communities with strength, prosperity, and hope for the future. During Rosh Hashanah, this hope and prosperity are especially fitting. We must begin this new year looking toward the future and refocusing on our walk with God. 

As you break challah and enjoy apples dipped in honey with your family this Rosh Hashanah, take time to reflect upon how you can better serve the poor and needy in your community. How can you take Yeshua’s words, and put them to work in your daily life? How can you help bring the sweetness of Rosh Hashanah to the poor? 

We invite you to give generously, as the Lord of this blessed season moves you.

Shana Tova u'Metuka,

Barry & Batya Segal

As you know, Rosh Hashanah is a very special time—a holy time set aside to reflect on the year past and to ground ourselves in preparation for Yom Kippur.

Exclaiming Joy—and Appreciation | Blog | Vision for Israel

But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?

820 families received financial aid from VFI thanks to our generous supporters.Among those receiving aid were: terror survivors, lone soldiers, families in need (lots of single-parent families!), Holocaust survivors, and new immigrants from Ethiopia. The VFI team distributed the aid via mail, at the Millennium Center and by giving in capsules in centralized locations.

The VFI team was busy giving food and toiletries baskets to hundreds of families in need in Jerusalem and the surroundings. The families expressed their deep gratitude. The recipients of aid range from singles to families with many children. There are single parents, elderly, new immigrants, those who are suffering from health problems and are unable to work, and some who have lost their jobs due to COVID.

Packing Food Baskets at the Millennium Center

Our team has been packing food baskets for hundreds of families. We try to get those baskets out as soon as we humanly can. The baskets are divided into 2 kinds: for families with up to 7 members and a larger basket for families with more than 7 members.

We love our soldiers and appreciate their sacrifice for keeping our land safe. As a token of appreciation, we gave 300 soldiers goodie bags (Mishlo’ach Manot) for Purim. The goodies were given to soldiers in select units in the south of Israel in cooperation with Yachad Lema’an Hachayal.

Due to COVID restrictions, Purim parties were very limited this year. We were able to sponsor a Purim party for children with special needs and purchased 30 pizza pies for the school. We hope that next year we can all go back to celebrating like we used to.

We have partnered with the Foundation for the Benefit of Holocaust Victims, and have run an initiative to fund panic button service (they require a subscription service to operate) in the homes of Holocaust survivors. So far, we’ve enabled about 800 Holocaust survivors to call immediately for help (doctor or ambulance) in any case of distress—24 hours a day, 365 days a year—whether living alone in their homes, or in sheltered housing.

We raised funds to purchase three new ICU beds for use during the height of Coronavirus, for three very deserving hospitals throughout northern and southern Israel. The cost of both bed and mattress was about USD $30,000, but the real-life impact of each of these units has been immeasurable.

Laptop for Bar-Mitzva to a Terror Survivor

Nadav lost his father in a terror attack in 2014. He and his four siblings were in the vehicle when a terrorist opened fire on their car on their way to the Seder meal. The children witnessed their father in his last moments. We have supported this family for several years with financial aid and with gifts for the children’s bar/bat mitzvahs. Recently Nadav celebrated his Bar Mitzvah, and we gave him a brand new laptop. 

In the last 3 months, our efforts have been focused on providing essentials and gift cards to families in need. Here, some highlights from our recent activities.

Impact Report—April 2021 | Blog | Vision for Israel

“...I will turn their mourning into joy;
I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow.”

Recently we got to know the Shavo family. Boaz, the father, is 60 years old today. He can’t work due to his medical condition. 

In 1996 he was ambushed by radical terrorists and they stoned him. In self-defense, he responded by shooting at the ground to drive them away and one of the terrorists claimed that he got injured. This led to over 15 years of legal battles resulting in very big financial distress. But that was far from the end of the tragedy. 

Boaz then lost his wife and three of their children in a separate terror attack in 2002. Thankfully Boaz and four of his children survived. His son Asael tells a powerful story: 

“In the year 2002 a terrorist broke into our house and shot to death my mother and three of my brothers. I was shot in my right leg--three bullets left me severely wounded. My leg was amputated afterward. I was nine years old. My family went through a terrible trauma; our house was burnt down, I spent two years in the hospital following that terrible night.”

A few years ago, Boaz who was a medic, was called to a terror attack site, where he discovered that his son’s friend’s parents were murdered. 

 At the Shiva, he was trying to bring light, hope, and faith.

“My message is that the people of Israel are overcomers and are not afraid. In my case, they wanted to destroy my family—and still, I rose up again, despite the ongoing pain and difficulty. They murdered my wife and three children, but 4 survived, and after remarriage, we have triplets and the house is full of light. We adopted a son 7 years ago and truly there is a lot of joy. I always ask myself, what would Rachel want me to do? The drastic change between the life I had to the new life is hard, there is no school that teaches that.”

According to him, coping is difficult but you must get up on your feet.

“I relive the attack all the time. Every little event startles me. [When] I’m on a trip up north, I remember where my son hiked. My dear ones were born in Itamar and were murdered there, and I also buried them there. But we move on, that’s the answer. To raise a family and more families and more children, because the People of Israel is alive.”

Boaz is proud to tell his son’s Asah’el extraordinary success story, who was severely injured in the terror attack and lost his leg.

“He was 9 years old at the time, and he took control of himself. From the day that he woke up in intensive care, he always told me, dad, I want to do everything by myself. I told him, but you don’t have a leg. He insisted on jumping on one leg. 

Today he is a grown man. But in the first few years, I accompanied him every day with a lot of difficulties. Sometimes I carried him in my arms until he learned how to walk. Today he is an exceptional swimmer and also a basketball player in Israel’s Disabled Team and he represented Israel in the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics (2016).

Today it doesn’t bother him, he feels like he has 2 legs. He has fun, works, and teaches swimming. He finished his bachelor’s degree in Phy Ed at Wingate. He teaches children to swim and he managed to teach a girl who didn’t want to get out of a wheelchair to swim. I know that the whole subject of terror attacks still hurts him, but he goes on. That is the hope and that is the continuity.”

Boaz is such an inspiration to us—having lived through tragedies that most of us will never experience, yet keeping an optimistic and positive outlook on life. He has no income due to his injuries from the terror attack. Yet he now finds himself with a huge debt. We at Vision for Israel want to help alleviate some of this debt. Will you join us and help Boaz and his family get out of this huge debt?

VFI is supporting the family to cover their balanced debt of $65,000. Will you consider helping us to present them with a financial gift?

Learn more about Boaz here:
https://youtu.be/wkZMuZ7XGqw


Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. 

Recently we got to know the Shavo family. Boaz, the father, is 60 years old today. He survived several terror attacks and can’t work due to a medical condition.

Impact Story: Fighting Terror Through Incredible Hardship | Blog | Vision for Israel

Impact Story: Fighting Terror Through Incredible Hardship

“Is not this the fast that I choose: ... to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?”

There are exactly 30 days from Purim to Passover, and these two holidays have always held a special relationship. 

We commemorate Purim by reading the Megillah—telling the story of an anonymous orphan who became the queen of Persia. It’s the story of an attempt to exterminate a whole people—perpetrated by a hater of the Jewish people, who was serving as the king's advisor. 

We commemorate Passover by reading the Passover Haggadah—telling the story of Exodus, and how the Jewish people went from being slaves in Egypt—rejected and humiliated—to become God’s chosen people. 

Presently, we live in a time of bondage—a dark night of the soul. And while it may be comforting to distract ourselves from the burden, we cannot forget that these times of restriction—these opportunities for more fervent prayer and self-reflection—are important to our understanding of what freedom truly is. Light is best appreciated from the dark, and freedom is cast in more obvious contrast by the pressures of bondage and restriction. 

God’s word has a lot to say on the subject. We invite you to dwell on this passage, taking it fully to heart.

“For freedom Messiah has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1

Jews around the world open the reading of the Hagaddah (re-telling of the story of the exodus from Egypt) by declaring in Aramaic: Ha lachma anya di achalu avhatana b’ara d’mitzrayim..., which includes the line “All who are hungry, come and eat!”. In Hebrew lachma anya is the bread of the poor, the bread of affliction.

It is a beautiful gesture that expresses one of the core values of this holiday: everyone, especially aiming to the poor – no matter one’s income level – deserves to celebrate being free at Passover.


“This is the bread of affliction that our ancestors ate in the land of Egypt. All those who are hungry, let them enter and eat. All who are in need, let them come celebrate the Passover. Now we are here. Next year in the land of Israel. This year we are enslaved. Next year we will be free.” - Passover Haggadah

There is so much to hope for—in the coming months, and in the many years ahead as we continue to bless Israel and her people with the love of Yeshua. 

The Vision for Israel team is busy in the coming weeks, distributing essential aid for Passover to hundreds of families in need, as well as to those who were affected by acts of terror, single parents, new immigrants, lone soldiers, and Holocaust survivors.  The aid will be given in several locations in Jerusalem and the surrounding cities. We will also extend our hands to the southern and central regions of Israel.  

Our goal is to reach 1,000 families (an average of over 4,000 people) to provide them with essential supplies for Passover, the total sum of which will cost about $100,000. 

As we all look forward to the Passover, let’s take the opportunity to bless those who are hungry. After all, it is God’s desire for us to care for them. 

Will you help us continue this joyful work setting the oppressed and the needy free? Your continued support means the world to us, and to all the dear people of Israel who depend on the blessings we have been able to distribute, thanks to you.

“He who has a generous eye will be blessed, For he gives of his bread to the poor.”

Reading the Hagaddah begins in Aramaic: Ha lachma anya..., which includes the line “All who are hungry, come and eat!”.Lachmaanya is the bread of affliction.

God Will Set Us Free Again | Blog | Vision for Israel

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.

When we do our outreach, we are constantly interacting with recipients of our aid. This woman wished to remain anonymous but was willing to share some of her story with us. Adi* described her situation as desperate. She and her husband had found themselves in a difficult financial crisis after he’d lost his work as a bus driver, and she was left to care for the family through her work in a child care facility.

Their expenses remained the same: rent, utilities, food, and everything else it takes to raise a family and run a home—but their income became significantly restricted. Adi had become extremely anxious trying to figure out how to address the huge debt they accumulated. Even with the direct financial aid, we offer at Vision for Israel, it wasn’t clear to her how to proceed.

Thankfully, we were able to offer them financial counseling services through our trusted nonprofit partner, which combined with the aid itself to help make a much larger positive impact. Not only did they receive the money to give them a boost out of their situation, but the financial tools to use it wisely on their limited income.

At Vision for Israel, we aim to give all families in need the tools to fight their hardships, so they can have hope for a better future, and be better prepared for the road ahead. So we’re enrolling up to 120 households in a special program that consists of 10 one-on-one, in-depth meetings with a qualified financial consultant. When they complete the course, the couple will receive a financial gift of $1000 to start them off strong.

Will you help us rescue the poor in Israel—giving them a chance to stabilize their families and dig themselves out of the hardships of the pandemic?

Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.

Adi and her husband had found themselves in a financial crisis after he’d lost his work, and she was left to care for the family through her low-income work.

Impact Story: A Gift of Counsel | Blog | Vision for Israel

Deep Appreciation from a Longtime Partner for Bar and Bat Mitzvah Celebration

On a dreary day, the morning of the 7th light of Hanukkah, during a very dark year—the light was rekindled in our hearts. 
We chose Hanukkah to celebrate bar and bat mitzvah with these sweet children from terror victim families because what better time to shine a light through the darkness?

Each year, we at Vision for Israel organize a moving, meaningful, and unforgettable event. 48 boys and girls came to the Millennium Center for a theatrical guided tour.

Below is an abridged version of the letter we received afterward:

“I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude on behalf of the representative organization and its members, to Vision for Israel, headed by Batya and Barry Segal, for your contribution to the success of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah 2020 event for children affected by acts of hostilities.

At the Bar and Bat Mitzvah event, 48 orphaned children, bereaved siblings, disabled children, and children of disabled parents, who were hit by missiles and Qassam rockets in the Gaza surroundings and southern Israel. Children who have lost their families, parents, and siblings in the various deadly attacks have participated in this celebration with us.

This project is an exciting, powerful, and unforgettable experience for families and children, especially this year in light of the Corona crisis, where children who reached their bar/bat mitzvah age do not get to experience and celebrate an exciting event that is so important to them.

Vision for Israel contributed to the Bar and Bat Mitzvah event 113,141 ILS (US $35,546) for:

Theatrical performance of "The Suitcase" 

Thank you for the great effort and investment, for the professionalism and full partnership in the activities for the welfare of the victims of hostilities.

With deep appreciation for the assistance in the implementation of various projects for the benefit of the members of the organization. May there be more generous and willing donors and, like the directors of Vision for Israel, Batya and Barry Segal.“

Gratitude is one of the simplest but most powerful things humans can do to each other

Ro’ee Cohen
Director-General of the Organization of Victims of Hostilities

The success of each event we organize is measured by one thing—what each person takes with him/her from the event and carries in their memory. All of this would not be possible without your incredible support! Because of you, we were able to lift their spirits and give them an embrace from afar so they know they are not alone.

 On behalf of the children, we say Thank you!

This Bar and Bat Mitzvah project is an exciting, powerful, and unforgettable experience for families, especially this year in light of the Corona crisis.

Enormous Impact on a Very Special Day | Blog | Vision for Israel

What is a homeland? Is it the place where you were born and raised? Is it the place where you currently live? Or is it the place where you feel most at home?
Most of the lone soldiers in Israel originate from the US, Canada, UK, and South America. And they came here to serve, without family or friends. 
Many Jewish youths around the world feel a strong need for a homeland—a place where they can feel at home, where society is their family, and where they can express their Jewish identity. 

They dream of making Aliyah and feel a sense of duty to serve in the IDF and to contribute to the safety of the people of Israel. But fulfilling this dream can be a great challenge, involving a disconnection from their natural environment, and their family and friends. It takes the willingness to start a new life.

During Hanukkah, we took a trip to a Warm House for lone soldiers—a place for them to congregate, and warm their hearts. We gave them some Hanukkah gifts: toiletries, towels, and financial vouchers to purchase anything that they might need. The soldiers were delighted to receive these items and support.

Like many good people who support them along the way, we at Vision for Israel also feel admiration towards these young men and women—as well as a responsibility to stand by their side and support them. We thank them for their dedicated service—and you, for your unwavering support for these special young people.


Many lone soldiers in Israel came here to serve from other countries, without family or friends. During Hanukkah, we visited lone soldiers and brought gifts.

The Warmth of Home for Hanukkah | Blog | Vision for Israel

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED PARTNERSHIP WITH VISION FOR ISRAEL

Dear Friends,

Shalom and blessings upon you, our dear partners. Together with our team, we continue to pray for you—to become even more deeply established in the word of God, more confident in faith, and to expand your vision and prosper in all you set your hands to do.

This year has brought unprecedented challenges. The entire globe, with billions of people, is fighting a new enemy—an invisible virus. We all seem to be busy fighting this enemy. The world has come to standstill, with lockdowns and airport shutdowns—empty streets, and empty shopping centers. 

Our lives have taken a complete turn. We are asked to keep social distance, preventing our most foundational expressions of love that have served us for thousands of years—hugging, breaking bread together, enjoying fellowship with one another, seeing our grandparents, and visiting the elderly. The biggest threat to the people we love is the way we have always expressed our love. 

This verse comes to mind again and again: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love”(1 Corinthians 13:13). 

With this we realize what is at stake here, and that with great challenges, come greater victories. Throughout the long history of God and His people, this has always been the case. 

For those of us who have remained in faith, the challenges we faced with the pandemic and its effects this year have helped us become stronger—and have renewed and reaffirmed our belief that we can overcome any hardship through our faith in God. Together, we can be the hands and feet of Yeshua to bring hope and healing to the people.

We look forward with great expectations for the year 2021.

The opportunity we have in front of us with this upcoming year is the perfect time to call upon ourselves to be more united, to do more good works, and to comfort and love more than ever. 

Because of the gains we have made in our faith throughout the hardship of 2020, we are ready to expand the work—to increase our giving, to care for more people, and to enlarge the place of His dwelling.


“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works“

With love and much appreciation,

Batya Segal
Founders, Vision for Israel

Blessing the southern region children with a play for Tu-Bishvat

Blossoming Flowers for Holocaust Survivors 

Celebrating Purim with Victims of Terror


Giving financial aid for Passover under the shadow of COVID

Providing panic buttons for the needy elderly 

Volunteers at the Millennium Center, packing food baskets for families in need

Sending essential aid to families in northern Israel

Supporting the Ethiopian community during COVID

Ongoing efforts at the Millennium Center — Volunteers packing food baskets for families in need

Pack to School distribution begins

Jerusalem

Giving Backpacks to children of the Arab community in Jerusalem

Granting scholarships to victims of terror

Providing financial gift cards to families in need for the High Holidays

Science equipment for a special education school in Jerusalem

Distributing food baskets to the new immigrant community

Incredible volunteers packing food and clothes

Brand new medi-cycle to ZAKA Emergency Responders

Continued efforts among the Ethiopian community

Blessing children with new shoes for the new year

Feeding the hungry in Bethlehem for Christmas

Celebrating Bar and Bat Mitzvah with children from terror victim families during Hanukkah

Supporting lone soldiers with financial aid for Hanukkah

Dear Friends,

As we close out the year that was 2020, we notice that the new norm seems to be an increasing amount of deception and delusion spreading across the face of the earth.

Pandemics and unstable economies and end-time prophecies seem to indicate the last chapter of world history before the second coming of the Lord.

So the question is this: How do we want to make our mark in world history—that is—“His Story”?

Where do we want to store up our treasures? Here on earth, or in heaven?

For many Christian and Jewish believers, we have acted in a religious behavior pattern of life—but now that things are accelerating, it’s time to show God we mean business. 

The book of Revelation says that evil will become more evil—but good will also become more good. Looking around at all that has transpired this year, does this ring true to you? 

The book continues to describe a dividing of the ways—we will need to choose. But the good news is that we have an incredible opportunity in front of us: to begin 2021 with a fresh new start.

Batya and I cannot thank you enough for your steadfast support throughout this trying time. We extend to you every blessing of Yeshua, and we look forward to seeing His awesome power at work, through our diligent cooperative efforts and works of faith.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

With love, blessings, and all our best wishes,
Barry Segal
Co-founder, Vision for Israel

Our efforts here at VFI have been focused on providing essentials and gift cards to families in need. Here are some highlights from our activities in 2021.

A Renewed Sense of Hope | Blog | Vision for Israel

On a dreary day, the morning of the 7th light of Hanukkah, during a very dark year—the light was rekindled in our hearts. 

We chose Hanukkah to celebrate bar and bat mitzvah with these sweet children from terror victim families because what better time to shine a light through the darkness?

Their families have been through so much in their lives, and despite the restrictions of Covid-19, we didn’t give up. We were determined to do everything to give them a wonderful day of joyous and moving activity—even in the shadow of Covid.

The celebration of Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a huge milestone for Jewish children, and each child deserves to celebrate this event and feel the special meaning of the coming-of-age of Mitzvot.

Sadly, not every family can give their child a festive and honorable event. Such is commonly the case with terror victim families—who are often in deep pain, amid a long and difficult rehabilitation process, and suffering from financial distress.

Each year, we at Vision for Israel organize a moving, meaningful, and unforgettable event. This year, 45 boys and girls came to the Millennium Center for a fun-filled day that included a theatrical guided tour.

The guests were divided into 4 small groups, with a space in the building dedicated to each group—maintaining social distance from the other groups. Entertainment was provided by Hamizvada (The Suitcase) Theatrical Tours, who performed for each group.

The actors came with a suitcase, where they have all the equipment and costumes for the show. Each one of the actors presented something special from a specific era in the Jewish people’s history in Israel.

As the event came to an end, each child was called forth to receive gifts before going home. Each child received useful, high-quality gifts, including a Teffilin set, Siddur (prayer book), candlesticks, and more. The excitement peaked as each child received an iPad.

The success of each event we organize is measured by one thing—what each person takes with him/her from the event and carries in their memory. All of this would not be possible without your incredible support! Because of you, we were able to lift their spirits and give them an embrace from afar, so they know they are not alone.

On behalf of the children, we say Thank you!


Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are a huge milestone for Jewish children, and each child deserves to feel the special meaning of the coming-of-age of Mitzvot.

Symbols of Hope in a Time of Darkness | Blog | Vision for Israel

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, "I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

Our Vision for Israel team and volunteers just had another magical day of giving, this time as part of Clothing Day for Holocaust survivors.

Holocaust survivors in Israel live off very small stipends, and many of them require expensive medicines to get by. The cost of living in Israel can be a heavy burden on them.

So after weeks of preparation—hand sorting through thousands of clothing items and packing dozens of packages—we finally loaded all the packages into our vehicles and went out for distribution.

We were so pleased to see that dozens of Holocaust survivors came to the event to choose clothing items that are to their liking. The choices included coats, shirts, pants, winter clothes, jackets, undergarments, pajamas, and more. 

The event was, of course, organized following the strict Covid-19 instructions and limitations that were in place—with an open-air layout and small groups of people allowed together at one time. 

We were very excited to meet them and to see the joy and delight on their faces. Even the weather agreed—blessing us all with a clear blue sky, and the warm sun for our special day.



 Each one of the survivors left the place with a bag full of clothing items that fit them and their taste. In return, they left us with words of gratitude and smiles to carry us through during this difficult time.

Clothed in Compassion | Blog | Vision for Israel

Yatbenash and her family made Aliyah from Ethiopia in 2004. Her family consists of her parents, and her four children; ages 22, 19, 15, and 5. When the family arrived in Israel, they first lived in an absorption center, later moving into one of Jerusalem's poor neighborhoods. 

In 2015 Yatbenash came to the welfare office because of marital problems, and conflict between her husband and their eldest son. The difficulties between father and son affected the whole family and put a strain on their relationship as well. 

In their relationship roles, her husband was the only one who made decisions, leaving Yatbenash a bystander with no voice. When it escalated to sustained domestic violence, she didn’t know what to do—but after a particularly abusive encounter, she decided she’d had enough and called the police. 

Yatbenash works hard to provide for the family but is facing many hardships—both financial and emotional. She does everything by herself, without financial or emotional support from family or friends. 

She cannot afford to cover all her expenses and payments on her modest income, and her husband doesn't always support her financially with household expenses and bills. Despite all the difficulties, Yatbenash pushes forward—devoting herself to providing for her children. 

Yatbenash and her family made Aliyah from Ethiopia in 2004. When the family arrived in Israel, they first lived in an absorption center, later moving into one of Jerusalem's poor neighborhoods. 

Aliyah from Ethiopia | Blog | Vision for Israel

For thousands of years, the Jewish people lived in exile—suffering persecution, and longing to return home to Israel. And over that time, despite incredible odds, the people have managed to maintain their identity—even as they assimilated into life within the diaspora.

No matter who they were—ultra-orthodox to secular from all levels of society, and even many Christians—it has been understood that a return to the land is a birthright that belongs to the people, even before the state of Israel was officially reestablished in 1948.

Many people, including Batya’s parents who were Yemenite Jews, have endured the grueling months-long walk in the desert just to come home to Israel. Many others weren’t as fortunate and died along the way.

But why do they do it? For what reason would a people undergo such incredible hardship? 
Faith, of course. Faith that the days of the Messiah have come—and they want to be there for it. 
Since the modern state of Israel was re-established, some 1.8 million people have made Aliyah—originating from all over the world.

With the vast droves of humanity converging on the land, from all walks of life, it’s easy to see where difficulties can lie. Many of them do not speak Hebrew, as they have lived their entire lives (or even generations) away from Israel.

Other customs and formalities of life in Israel may strike them as hard to understand as well. Differing laws, tax structures, governmental controls, and even societal norms can make a formidable barrier for Jews of the diaspora making Aliyah.

It’s vital that we help these people find their way home. 

That’s why we’ve been working for decades—together with you, our heroic partners—to provide direct aid to Jews from all over the world who take on the task of making a new home here in Israel. 

Barry received a call from a good friend and Bible teacher who invited him to Israel, to make it his home. It didn’t take too long for Barry to realize there are so many verses in the Bible referring to the return of the Jews from the diaspora. One particular verse spoke to his heart: “I will bring them from the East and from the west...”

Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, And gather you from the west

He left his career, and entire family behind. His father asked him to reconsider and stay in the USA.


But Barry had made up his mind, as he felt Israel is a home for the Jewish people. After the Holocaust, there was no doubt in his mind that it was the only safe place for the Jewish people.

He arrived with a suitcase, 20 cans of tuna, and $100 to his name. He studied Hebrew in Jerusalem, then went on to find a job, and start a business. Later, he married Batya, and established his current vocation of compassion, whereby so many people are blessed.

Together, we’ve provided aid to thousands of immigrants—from Russia to Ethiopia, and other countries—aimed at giving them a sense of home. Through educational programs for their children, special welcome baskets, assistance for new mothers with baby gift packs, clothing, toys, books, household items; we’ve opened our arms to accept these weary sojourners—and showed them the love of Yeshua (Jesus) firsthand.

Thank you for making this outreach possible, and for everything you do to support those seeking refuge in the name of God. 

For thousands of years, the Jewish people have lived in exile—suffering persecution, and longing for Israel. And now, despite incredible odds, it’s time to come home.

Coming Home—to a Brand New Life | Blog | Vision for Israel

Over 7,000 lone soldiers serve in the IDF, most of them in combat units.

But what exactly is a lone soldier?

Lone soldiers in the IDF come from many backgrounds: A soldier coming from a distressed family, who is unable to take care of him or herself; a soldier from abroad, who came to Israel to serve the country and is here without any support; the common thread among them is twofold—a deep commitment to service for their country, and loneliness.

On Shabbats and holidays, when all their friends get to go back to a warm and caring home—to dad's hug, mom's food and treats, to someone doing the laundry and ironing for them—these soldiers come to an empty, cold house.

At Vision for Israel, we’ve supported hundreds of lone soldiers over the years. Holiday gift cards, for example, have allowed them to warm their hearts by celebrating with food on the holiday table—just like their peers.

The commander of the Golani Commando Unit, some of whose soldiers received assistance from Vision for Israel for the holidays this year, sent us a moving Certificate of Appreciation, saying, "[Vision for Israel is] always here for us for any assistance, support, and guidance."

He shared with us a few personal stories from the aid recipients:

Amir* lives in a house for lone soldiers. He was born into an ultra-Orthodox family in Bnei-Brak, and due to his difficulties in studying Torah, he was called the black sheep in the family. At the age of 18, he was forced into an arranged marriage against his will, and about a year later he became a father to a son. 

Amir felt no joy in his heart. He felt he was out of place, and decided to divorce his ultra-Orthodox wife and embark on secular life, hoping to find his place in the world. His parents opposed vehemently, were angry, and even severed ties with him. Amir has not been in contact with his parents for about 4 years. He enlisted in the Golani Unit and now dedicates all his time and energy to defending the country. In his few exits from the base, he does his best to see his little son.

Benni* immigrated to Israel from Romania at the age of 14, along with his mother and brother, after his father abandoned the family and severed ties with them. When they arrived in Israel, his mother's mental state was difficult, and she was unable to raise her children on her own. 

She informed Benni that she would no longer support him as a mother, that she was disconnecting from him, and that he had to manage on his own. He moved from house to house and from one boarding school to another, and lived for years without a place that he can call home. Recently Benni and his father renewed communication, but the relationship with his mother is still severed. Benni supports himself entirely, without any help.

*Names have been changed

Over 7,000 lone soldiers serve in the IDF, most of them in combat units. They come from many backgrounds to serve the country and are here without any support.

A Welcome Support for Lone Soldiers | Blog | Vision for Israel

And amid this busy and festive time, Israel continues to reel from the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic. 

At Vision for Israel, our team has been working hard to help prepare as many families as possible for this time of increased activity, with the additional pressure of financial distress. Many of these families are experiencing joblessness for the first time, and are unsure how to cope with the new pressures of low income, unpaid leave, and medical problems. 

It’s important for us to provide these dear families some relief, to allow them to survive in these difficult times, and make it possible for them to have food on the holiday table.

Over the last few weeks, dozens of needy families have been invited to the Millennium Center, to receive a NIS 300 (USD $90) gift card. 

There, we met single mothers, some with many children, new immigrant families facing assimilation difficulties, and many other families facing financial difficulties due to the physiological and mental health problems of their family members.

One recipient told us that she was going to go shopping right away using the gift card. We made it clear to her that the essence of the assistance was shopping for the holidays, but she explained that her husband was very ill and that caring for him did not leave her enough time to shop and run errands. 

Therefore, she preferred to buy products that do not spoil, such as honey and frozen meat, so that when the holiday approaches, she can make a relatively small purchase in the little time that is available to her.

Especially in these difficult times, when the coronavirus affects so many people, it remains important for us to allow distressed families to celebrate the holidays joyfully, with enough food on their table.

The Vision for Israel team has been working hard to help prepare many families for increased activity, with the additional pressure of financial distress.

New Challenges for the High Holidays | Blog | Vision for Israel

Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails. 

Life is lonely for Holocaust survivors these days. For them, advanced age, limited mobility, and chronic conditions have long presented challenges—and the pandemic has only added to the risk of social interaction for this vulnerable cohort.

Assisting New Immigrants

As followers of Yeshua, we know it’s our responsibility to help immigrants, the poor, the sick, and all who have experienced the trauma of war and persecution—and to fully welcome them into community life, and Israeli culture.

~ Ludmila, Beit Hallel Congregation

Are you willing to bless Israel, make a difference in the lives of people, and partner with God's plan for restoration of the land of Israel?

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