Rebuild Zelda Burkey’s Home that was destroyed by wildfires

Six years after being destroyed by wildfires, Zelda needs our help to rebuild a place that gave thousands a safe place, a "home away from home" and where all were welcome.

After 6 years of bureaucracy at 69 years old, Zelda finally has the permits. She has the land. What she doesn’t have is the money to rebuild the home that gave so many a place to belong. The total cost is roughly 2 million shekels (about $530,000 USD). If we can raise $100,000, it will help make her dream of rebuilding her home a reality. A home that she will fill with family, community and guests.

Our parents, Zelda and Emery (Z”L ) Burkey moved to Israel in 1990 and built a home on Moshav Mevo Modiim that was more than just four walls — it was a refuge. A place filled with love, food, kindness and so much more.

They not only raised us in this home, but opened their doors and their hearts to welcome tens of thousands of guests over the years and provided family to those who needed it; students, lone soldiers, young couples, new olim and may more. Something Zelda continued to do on her own after Emery's passing in 2012.

Our home was a true demonstration of hachnasat orchim (the mitzvah of welcoming guests), Whether you came for a Friday night dinner, stayed for a weekend (or longer) maybe just came for a hug or a cup of coffee you always felt welcome and were treated like extended family.

Six years ago, a wild fire tore through Moshav Mevo Modi’im, reducing Zelda’s beloved home to ashes.

Our Mother lost all her physical possessions to the fire but even with her home destroyed, and having to build up her life from scratch, Zelda’s spirit never diminished, and she never stopped giving. Zelda remains present and has been unwavering in her efforts to provide support, hospitality, and endless attention to all those around her.

She provides a touchstone for many who need a "local mother", looks after her community, cooks for soldiers and drives the length and breadth of Israel bringing them meals and other treats. To this day Zelda continues to welcome guests in her current residence and wherever she can, continuing to be the anchor she has always been to so many.

What your donation will do:

• Help cover the cost of rebuilding Zelda’s home on Moshav Mevo Modi’im.

• Support construction without burdening Zelda with long-term debt.

• Restore a base of hospitality for Jewish travelers, lone soldiers, and guests from all over the world.

How your donation will help - some estimated prices:

• Secure front door: 1,600-2,200 $ (6,000 – 8,000 ILS)

• 1 Internal door: 280 $ (1000 ILS)

• 1 Standard Window: 700$ (2,500 ILS)

• Floor tiles: 11,000 - 16,800 $ (40,000 – 60,000 ILS)

• Bath tub: 420$ (1,500 ILS)

• 1 Toilet: 195 $ (700 ILS)

• Solar water heater: 1,398 $ (5,000 ILS)

• Kitchen counter: 670 $ (2,500 ILS) per meter

• Kitchen cabinets / drawers

Ways to support:

• Donate what you can — every shekel helps.

• Share this campaign widely with anyone who’s ever stayed at Zelda’s or been touched by her generosity.

• Leave a message. Share your memory. Let the world know why the Burkey home matters.

Thank you,

The Burkey kids