RELIEF FOR DISPLACED FAMILIES & FARMERS IN ISRAEL

On October 7th, 2023 terrorists invaded Israel and brutally tortured, raped, murdered, beheaded, and kidnapped innocent civilians, including women and children of all ages leading to the largest massacre against the Jewish community since the Holocaust. Having been to Israel many times and being raised in a family that emphasized the importance of giving back and making a difference in people's lives. As a past fundraising chair for JUF, UJA and JNF, these recent events in Israel have deeply affected me. As I watched the news unfold, seeing the devastation and the impact on displaced families, farmers, and communities, I knew I could no longer sit by and watch from afar. I have created this fundraising campaign to support these people.

My mother escaped from Nazi Germany as a young girl, along with my grandparents, eventually moving to Chicago, IL where I was born. As a descendant of holocaust survivors, I am called to help in any way possible.

In December 2023 I traveled to Israel for two weeks, not as a tourist, but as a force for change and hope. From Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, I was traveling with existing local volunteer groups throughout Israel to help the displaced Israeli families that were victims of the recent atrocities and worked directly with local community organizations in Israel to provide food, supplies, and money to support and supplement these families in their time of immense struggle.

The recent tragedy has left an indelible mark on the lives of so many, with the displacement of thousands of families. Their homes have been destroyed, their families dead or missing, their possessions gone and their livelihoods decimated. I am committed to leveraging my experience, resources, and connections in Israel to make a meaningful impact on the ground.

By contributing to this cause, you will be joining me in an endeavor to offer solace, assistance, financial support, and a sense of renewed hope to those who have endured unimaginable loss and suffering. Your generosity will directly fund critical community support services, provide essential supplies, clothing, and food for the affected communities. These communities are mainly displaced families and farmers who are in desperate need.

Additional ways I have been assisting local communities are:

- Financially contribute to the NOVA Community in providing mental health services to the survivors of the brutal attack at the NOVA Festival.- Providing care packages to those in need.

- Providing financial support and help at ADI Negev; a rehabilitative village providing services for disabled children and adults.

-Financially contribute to mental health and community services through a variety of local organizations.

- Work together with HaShomer HaChadash on farms, picking vegetables and other crops to prevent a massive shortage in the Israeli market and ensuring that no farmer is left alone, unable to work his land and providing financial support for essential equipment needed.

It is my firm belief that by coming together and extending our support, we can channel our shared commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of the individuals and families impacted by this tragedy.

Your support, no matter the amount, will be a beacon of compassion and resilience, demonstrating our unwavering solidarity with the resilient people of Israel as they navigate through this trying time. Every donation, large or small, will make a difference.

Thank you for standing with me as we embark on another upcomng mission this year of compassion and healing. Your contribution will not only offer immediate relief but will also serve as a profound gesture of empathy and support for those who are enduring profound loss and hardship.

Together, let us illuminate the path to brighter tomorrows for the families and communities affected by this devastating event.

With heartfelt gratitude and hope,

Carey Smolensky