Rabbi Mendi and Chani Klein, Shluchim to Eilat were already in overdrive. Together with an army of volunteers, they have spent the last two months providing support, programs and activities to over 70,000 evacuees. These families come from from Be’eri, Chulit, Kissufim, Nachal Oz, and 40 more communities from the Gaza area and Northern Israel. This is in addition to their regular Chabad activities for the local community.
And then the Kleins received a phone call that would make the next 48 hours a complete whirlwind of activity.
An Urgent Call to Action
The challenge began with a call on the Tuesday before Chanukah from the Deputy Director of the Ministry of Education who was tasked with overseeing the educational needs of the evacuees in Eilat.
The request was daunting: to provide Chanukah programs for 60 schools starting in less than 48 hours. The magnitude of this task, coupled with an estimated cost of more than $15,000, did not deter the Kleins.
Rapid Response and Resource Mobilization
With Chanukah starting in less than two days. Rabbi Mendi and Chani tapped into their extensive network, including a crucial partnership with Lev Echad, a national volunteer organization. This collaboration was vital in rallying the necessary manpower and additional resources.
Innovative and Engaging Program Development
Understanding the need for an engaging educational approach, the Kleins developed a creative solution: a dance video suitable for classroom settings where students could dance in a Chanukah spirit. Overnight this video was created and helped bring back some joy to these children.
Overcoming Logistical Challenges
The logistical aspect was formidable. The Kleins managed the ordering and distribution of 5,000 donuts and dreidels, ensuring timely delivery to each school. The community rallied around their efforts, offering storage and distribution solutions crucial in this time-sensitive mission.
The Night of Preparation
On the eve of Chanukah, Rabbi Mendi, Chani, and their dedicated team, together with the volunteers from Levechad, worked through the night. They prepared special Chanukah packages for each child ensuring each child felt seen and cared for.
The Uplift Eilat Campaign: A Critical Fundraising Effort for Continued Support
In the face of these overwhelming challenges, Chabad of Eilat has initiated the Uplift Eilat Campaign, aiming to raise $1,000,000. This significant fundraising effort is crucial for the continuation and expansion of their vital programs for the evacuees.
Your generosity can offer solace to thousands, funding this Chanukah program in Schools plus other activities for evacuees including mini camps, daily clubs, family concerts, uplifting events and teen engagement.
Each donation you make vitalizes these programs, sparking hope and inspiration among those in need.
The stories are unimaginable, Your support will be unforgettable.
Please Donate Today at uplifteilat.com
