Yad Eliezer ANNUAL REPORT 2014 Together

Yad Eliezer ANNUAL REPORT 2014 Together... we can

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Yad Eliezer Mission Statement 2014 YadEliezer.org Expands 5 36 Chairman’s Note Leave a Legacy: Make the World a Better Place 38 6 What Yad Eliezer Means to Me Facts and Figures 2014 40 8 Building the Future: Building Milestones of 2014 Around Israel with Yad Eliezer 13 41 IDF Operation Protective Edge Financial Report 2014 22 42 The Two Israels: Poverty Report 2014 Around the World with Yad Eliezer Produced July 2015 26 43 for Yad Eliezer, Jerusalem, Israel Written and Edited by The Many Hands of Yad Eliezer Letters of Endorsement Yaelle Ehrenpreis Meyer 30 44 Graphic Design by Ben Gasner Studio Director’s Letter Pictures by 46 Yossi Kaufman

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We We We Can Did Will Yad Eliezer Mission Statement 2014

ad Eliezer was founded on the prem- vide critical short-term relief while simulta- ise that every Jew in Israel is entitled neously confronting the underlying causes to a life of dignity, self-reliance and of indigence, forging broad-based solutions Yself-respect. Established in 1980 with the that empower long-term financial and psy- single objective of delivering monthly food chological stability. Each component of Yad baskets to hungry families, Yad Eliezer has Eliezer’s comprehensive welfare system grown to encompass over fifteen economic − which includes nationwide distribution 5 and social service programs that impact the of essential food, clothing, and household www.yadeliezer.org lives of over 20,000 families each year. items, job training and child mentoring pro- Our mandate is to give the internation- grams − contributes towards the fulfillment al Jewish community the opportunity to of its mandate to engender economic recov- reach out to their fellow Jews in Israel, ery and social development in Israel. to serve as the conduit for the global While our roster of programs has Yad Eliezer family – our staff, volunteers expanded and our budget exceeded $35 and contributors around the world – million this year, our cadre of dedicated Yad to support those in Israel who need Eliezer supporters enables the organization their help most. to honor its commitment to limited overhead The entire Yad Eliezer team and minimal expenses while providing works together to combat poverty personalized and professional assistance on the individual, family, communal, to hundreds of thousands of our nation’s and national levels. We aim to pro- neediest.

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We We We Can Did Will Chairman’s Note 2014

swering those needs, every day, through- Future. This year we celebrated the culmi- Dear Friends of out the country. nation of not one – but two – major building Yad Eliezer, In some ways, our Annual Report – and projects that will enable us to impact and the reality it reflects – remains all-too- improve the lives of Israelis nationwide: Welcome to the second decade of the Yad comparable to the facts on the ground in Construction of our magnificent new Eliezer Annual Report! 2004. Between then and now Israel has Wedding Complex in Bnei Brak, and reno- Back in the early 2000s, we here at Yad 6 indeed joined the OECD, the council of vation of the famous Yad Eliezer Jerusalem Eliezer had already been providing sup- the world's most developed nations. But Warehouse. Read all about these great mile- port to Israel's needy families for over 20 while Start-Up Israel continues to lead stones inside – and of course, make plans to years. The time had come, all of us felt, to global development in technology, science pack food boxes on your next visit to Israel! ifference create a new framework for communica- D and medicine, the chasm between the The year 2014 was also one in which tion – a dynamic and exciting way to share country's fortunate and less-so has only the global Jewish family united together in the challenges and achievements of Yad grown. “One-in-three” remains an accu- support – and too often, in tears – during Eliezer with our friends worldwide. So we rate catchphrase to capture a landscape Operation Protective Edge. Yad Eliezer's

You Make the Make You created the Yad Eliezer Annual Report, in which one-third of the nation's children $1 million campaign brought some relief to a publication as filled with people, pain, grow up beneath the poverty line. all those under fire, IDF soldiers and civil- faith and hope as the tens of thousands But the last decade has also seen Yad ians in the South alike. of families who were benefitting from our Eliezer grow and develop, remaining true to There's more. In fact, Yad Eliezer now services. We introduced you to the real our essence while expanding both the num- touches the lives of over 100,000 individu- people behind the “Yad Eliezer” banner: bers of those we help and the ways in which als throughout Israel. All of them – fami- the people in need and the people an- we continue working tirelessly to Build the lies seeking basic food items, newborns

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We We We Can Did Will The last decade has Annual Report 2008 seen Yad Eliezer Ya d Eliezer grow and develop, remaining true to our essence while expanding thirsting for nourishment, seniors craving companionship, brides wishing for a cel- Thank you for the chance to help -Israel’s a volunteer children! YAD ELIEZER ANNUAL REPORT 2011 ebration, youth yearning for role models, parents aiming to create a better future for An Opportunity to Give and to Receive to and Give to Opportunity An 7 their children – know that the doors of Yad Thank you for the chance to help -Israel’s a volunteer children!

Eliezer are always open. Throughout the www.yadeliezer.org years, our programs have been constantly always maintained open lines of commu- ures: they are there – and will continue to be tweaked to provide professional solutions nication, but in recent years we have har- there – to tell you a story: the story of who to new problems, while never losing site nessed the powers of cyberspace to give and what we are, of who and what we, with of our compassion for those in need. We you, new ways to stay informed and easier your consistent support, do to improve lives, have long relied on our extended “family,” ways to contribute to our programs. build families and generate real progress in but now we have forged an international Throughout, the Yad Eliezer Annual Re- Israeli society. network of volunteers – from hostesses of port has kept you “in the loop” of all that It’s a story we’ve been sharing with you Feed-a-Baby fundraisers in New Jersey to takes place in the world of Yad Eliezer. And since 2004. Now, read on for all we wish to teenagers donating their Bar Mitzvah mon- over the next ten years, while much in the tell you about the year that was: Yad Eliezer ey in London. Transparency and financial world, and much here at Yad Eliezer, will no Annual Report 2014. propriety have always been our watchwords, doubt continue to change, the Annual Re- Thank you, but today we have a renowned accountant port will continue to link all of us together. Sori Tropper firm serving as permanent auditor. We have The text, the pictures, the quotes, the fig- American Friends of Yad Eliezer

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We We We Can Did Will What Yad Eliezer Means to me Meet Our Panelists: Some of the dedicated staff, donors and volunteers of Yad Eliezer:

Yossi Kaufman Sara Zekbach Chaya Laya Bernstein Itzik Stern Director of Wedding Solomon Adopt-A- Manager of the Public Relations Coordinator Volunteer Wedding new wedding hall Jerusalem Jerusalem Coordinator Coordinator complex Toronto, CA Staten Island, Bnei Brak NY 8 Yossi represents the face of Sara welcomes the young This generous North American From the other side of the From his early days driving Yad Eliezer to the hundreds of couples who come to Jewish community loves to ocean, Laya enables weddings one of our trucks and then groups who come to volunteer book their weddings in our give – and Chaya is there to happen in Israel, as she managing our Jerusalem at our Jerusalem warehouse. subsidized halls. She listens as to encourage her fellow makes “shidduchim” between warehouse and up to his recent He also travels abroad they open up to her about the Torontonians to volunteer their engaged couples in North appointment as manager of our ifference throughout the year to raise difficulties they face, so she can time, energy and support on America and Israeli couples new wedding venue, Itzik has D funds and update supporters advise us as to which families behalf of Yad Eliezer. yearning to have their dreams been involved with every aspect across the globe on our need help most. come true. of Yad Eliezer. activities. Rabbi Asher David Kahn Eta Chaya Miriam Shalvi Zaritzky A great friend Eisenberger Taroug Waldman

You Make the Make You Tzedaka of Yad Eliezer Yad Eliezer Yad Eliezer Social Media/ Coordinator Efrat Volunteer Volunteer Website Ofakim Brooklyn, NY Dallas, TX Professional Tzefat

Ofakim is a city in south- David is a generous supporter Eta devotes herself to Down south in the Great State To quote Shalvi herself: “At western Israel with one of the of many years who not only organizing the Yad Eliezer of Texas, Chaya Miriam works Yad Eliezer there are donors, lowest income levels in the gives financial assistance but Chanukah/Shavuot Sales, with tirelessly to organize events, recipients, staff and volunteers. country. We often partner also actively engages the proceeds earmarked to the coordinate fundraisers and Which category do I fit into? All with Rabbi Zaritsky to help the involvement of many others in babies in Israel fed through encourage support for Yad of them. Is that really possible? needy of his community. Yad Eliezer. our Feed-a-Baby program. Eliezer's important work. Yes!”

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We We We Can Did Will continuously thinking about how to most effectively and efficiently What do you find unique about Yad Eliezer? meet those needs. As Yad Eliezer has grown to become one of Is- Is there is a specific fund with which you feel a rael's foremost aid organizations, it has continually evolved but also personal connection? stayed true to the founding vision and focus of the Vizel family: tzedaka v'chesed. Yossi: The scope of our operations across the country and the at- Eta: I love the fact that all my work for the baby fund – bake sale, tention paid to the needs of the individual as well as to our financial Chanuka sale, and more – is entirely volunteer based so that all accountability. proceeds go to Tzedaka. Laya: My strongest feeling is obviously the Adopt- Chaya Miriam: One impressive aspect of a-Wedding program! Time and time again people Yad Eliezer is like an Yad Eliezer is the people who work on their are so excited when I offer them this opportunity. behalf, both employees and volunteers. In They truly feel that I am giving them the chance to army fueled by love fact, even those who work for a salary are celebrate their wedding with the knowledge that volunteers – you can call them at any time, they are simultaneously helping another couple! for Klal Yisrael. they’re always active after hours, and they Just recently a woman told me that she and her ~ David Kahn never turn anyone away. friend were both reviewing their wedding expenses – but when she mentioned this program, they R’ Zaritzky: What I find unique is that the 9 both smiled. This is one expense, no matter how big, that brings joy organization is there throughout the cycle of life. Their help begins at to their hearts –they wouldn't make a wedding in their own family birth – baby formula for newborns; years later tefillin for Bar Mitzvah www.yadeliezer.org without first arranging to sponsor one in Israel! boys; meanwhile if a child is struggling, a Big Brother/ Big Sister will be there to guide him/her; Yad Eliezer will even help parents marry Itzik: As I work in the wedding halls, that is the program to which off their children, affordably but respectably, as well as complete ad- I feel most connected. Providing subsidized beautiful weddings for vanced education to enable them to obtain employment. the community is one of the most worthy causes I can think of. I personally have a friend who used to be wealthy but then lost his money. Yad Eliezer provided him with a very respectable wedding in a very discreet manner. What I find particularly touching is that Yad Eliezer sees the bigger picture and realizes that a young What do you think the supporters of Yad couple’s expenses don't stop at the end of the wedding – they are Eliezer have in common? just beginning. David: Yad Eliezer has both a Jewish heart and a Jewish mind. Those who run the organization are first and foremost concerned Yossi: A very strong bond to the Jewish people. Supporters take about helping those who need help. At the same time, they are their ability to make a difference to their brothers and sisters in

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We We We Can Did Will Israel very seriously and feel a personal connection to what we are Yossi: After witnessing firsthand the degree of extreme poverty privileged to carry out. that so many people are subjected to daily, you are inspired and Chaya: People with big hearts! driven to raise the awareness of others across the world so that Laya: I am in contact with people from across the globe and from all together we can make a significant difference. walks of life on a daily basis. Let me tell you just one of many heartwarm- ing interactions to illustrate the dedication that Yad Eliezer supporters share. Just prior to the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, I had contacted Mrs. B and she had expressed interest in participating in Adopt-a-Wed- ding. Three days after the hurricane she called me. “Hello, Laya, this is How has your life been impacted because of Mrs. B. Do you remember we had spoken about the wedding program? your connection to Yad Eliezer? I live in Far Rockaway and my house is completely flooded from the hurricane so I am trying to deal with Sandy’s destruction and the wedding preparations. I decided to call you now, because if I push it off, I know Sara: My work has also impacted the lives of my children. They without a doubt that I will get distracted by my many other obligations, have grown up hearing about people less fortunate than them- and I might lose the sponsorship of a wedding in honor of my son's wed- selves and they have learnt about the world of volunteering – what ding. Please can we take care of this over the phone?!” it means to take an interest in other people 10 Itzik: I've been involved with Yad Eliezer for 22 and try to help them even when it's not con- years. What I've seen over the years is that we Yad Eliezer reaches venient. help indiscriminately. Yad Eliezer rises above sec- Itzik: Yad Eliezer is my life. I cannot imagine torialism and reaches out to everybody. out to touch those in life without Yad Eliezer! ifference D David: A love for Am Yisrael and appreciation need at every stage of David: I feel a greater responsibility for for a well-run, transparent chesed organization! those in need in Israel. It is easy to live in a Eta: Everyone likes giving to Yad Eliezer because life. ~ R' Asher Zaritsky bubble and turn a blind eye to the many thou- they know exactly where every dollar is going. sands of families who feel a terrible financial

You Make the Make You R’ Zaritzky: Yad Eliezer reaches so many peo- burden day in, day out, as they struggle to ple; therefore supporters of Yad Eliezer can donate to the cause make it through the month. they feel most connected to. At every stage in life, they support Eta: I feel so blessed to be able to give so much to those in need! people in Israel who are experiencing the same milestone but in Every time I consider taking a break from what I do, I say to myself, less fortunate circumstances. When they have a baby, they feel “how can I stop when I am helping others?” connected to the Baby Fund, when it is time to make a Bar Mitzvah Yossi: My most powerful memories of Yad Eliezer are of bringing they help another boy celebrate a Bar Mitzvah as well, when mar- food, warmth and appreciation to our soldiers during Israel’s last rying off a child they will sponsor a wedding on the same night... three wars. Our many friends throughout the world give us the abil-

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We We We Can Did Will ity to provide food, water, undergarments, coffee makers, cellphone utes before candle-lighting. She had arrived at the Shabbat Kallah battery backup and Tehillim to the young men and women defending of a friend – only to discover that the orphan bride had nothing us – and most importantly, to show the concern and gratitude of to equip her new apartment. I called Milka, who immediately countless friends who love and pray for them. The appreciation of asked, “what is the kallah missing?” Milka called me back a few our soldiers is beyond description! minutes later to say: “Yad Eliezer will provide the young couple with all their electrical appliances.” The joy in the kallah’s home that Shabbat was tangible. David: Over 25 years ago, Rav Vizel took me to the apartments of some Yad Eliezer recipients. I remember staring at the mat- What memories and moments from your time at Yad Eliezer have stayed with you? tress on which the mother said three of her children slept. I also remember organizing convoys of cars every Rosh Chodesh to deliver frozen chickens to distribution points around Jerusalem. Sara: I've seen many stories of divine providence. One story Eta: When I was in Israel, my parents and my children came with sticks out in my mind. Many years ago a young woman – com- me to meet some families. We visited a family with 10 children, pletely alone, without a penny to her name living in a two-bedroom apartment – and they – came to reserve her wedding through Yad were so happy with what they have. We are so 11 Eliezer. She just sat down and burst into Yad Eliezer is like thankful for what we have! tears. Suddenly, the phone rang. On the an anchor – it is Chaya Miriam: I will never forget the time I www.yadeliezer.org line was someone looking to help a kallah in once visited the home of a new family on the need. I told him the story of my young visi- the support system Yad Eliezer roster. When a child asked for sup- tor and he happily agreed to pay for all her per, his mother said she would make him marak wedding expenses and the costs of setting for so many. (soup). She took a pot, filled it with water, and up her new apartment. I told the girl what ~ Chaya Miriam Taroug then added a bit of rice – and that was dinner. had just happened… her eyes and mine filled Yad Eliezer went on to transform the lives of with tears… this woman and her children. Chaya: I send out a mailing every year before Pesach time; the R’ Zaritzky: I remember when a house burnt down in our Ofa- average donation I receive is between $18 and $54. One year, I kim community one Friday morning. The family, which included received an envelope with $5 and a note attached saying: “This two developmentally disabled children, was left with nothing. That may not seem like a lot of money but there is poverty here in same day we contacted Yad Eliezer for help. Motzei Shabbat, even Toronto too and this is how I can help Yad Eliezer.” (I kept that before the father had returned from Maariv, the family received a letter hanging above my desk for years...) call from Yad Eliezer saying that they had arranged for funding to Itzik: One Friday I received a phone call from my niece 20 min- cover most of the expenses.

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We We We Can Did Will What do you want supporters to know about From the Desk of: Shalvi Waldman what goes on at Yad Eliezer? Yad Eliezer breaks many preconceptions as to what Tzedaka is all about. I started at Yad Eliezer as a staff member working in the office. But with Yad Eliezer always on my mind and in my heart I quickly became also a Sara: At Yad Eliezer, we listen to people, hear what’s lacking in volunteer, working beyond the scope of my job. I set up a new option for their lives, and try to fill their needs as quickly as possible. We try online giving, and confirmed its functioning by making a modest donation to help without judging. We welcome the brokenhearted, then through the new platform. So that made me a donor as well as a send them home with hearts full of hope for a better future. volunteer and a staff member. I was then also in the process of finishing Laya: I feel that the integrity and pure devotion of those who work my master’s degree in therapy, but a major life change left me unable to on behalf of Yad Eliezer impacts tremendously on the entire func- pay for my last year of education. As a working single mother I had very tioning of the organization. The donors sense it immediately and few resources to fall back upon and was overwhelmed with gratitude want to partner with Yad Eliezer. They feel confident that their and relief when the Yad Eliezer Job Training Fund covered much of my donation, no matter what amount, is being used solely and entirely scholarship. And soon after I graduated, Yad Eliezer’s Wedding Fund was to help our needy brothers. there to help me cover the cost of a simple wedding to my new husband. Itzik: I think that the donors should know that overhead costs Now that I am working as a psychotherapist in a low-income area in 12 are limited to 3%. This means that for every $1 you give, 97¢ goes Tzefat I am as grateful as ever to Yad Eliezer. They helped me gain self- directly to the family in need. sufficiency, and I continue to see the power of what they do in the lives of David: The number of people you impact, and the different sec- those around me: Arranging with the local makolet to provide food for the tors of Israeli society you assist – secular, religious, soldiers, civil- family of a young girl who came to me for therapy; covering the costs of a ifference ians… neighbor’s bar mitzvah; paying tuition to enable a single mother to train D in nursing school. That mother will be graduating soon. In a very moving Chaya Miriam: I want our supporters to really understand thank you letter she wrote that she will never forget the kindness of those the incredibly difficult circumstances some families live in. Some who are helping her to live her dream. And that every life that she saves people in Israel – through no fault of their own – literally do not or improves will be in the merit of the generous Yad Eliezer donors. have food and cannot afford necessary medication. You Make the Make You What does Yad Eliezer mean to me? Everything! By now Yad Eliezer R’ Zaritzky: What makes Yad Eliezer unique is the speed with is family to me. Yad Eliezer means support, community and connections. which they respond. I sometimes used to wonder why they cared Yad Eliezer somehow is there in the critical moments saving families from so much about our little community in the South, but then I real- tragedy and allowing them to rise up and succeed. As a staff member, ized they care about everyone. donor, volunteer and recipient I have seen time and time again that Yad Eliezer is there for vulnerable people when no one else is. I am proud to be a part of such a wonderful family. I hope that you are too!

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We We We Can Did Will Building The Future Yad Eliezer Building Milestones of 2014

13 www.yadeliezer.org

2014 marked a major milestone year for Yad Eliezer. Two major capital projects were completed this year. The construction of our magnificent new Wedding Complex in Bnei Brak and the renovation of our famous Jerusalem warehouse

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We We We Can Did Will The New Yad Eliezer Simcha Venue The Date: October 19, 2014, Isru Chag Sukkos 5755 The Setting: Armanot Friedman – The Friedman Wedding Hall Complex, Bnei Brak

t certainly seemed to be a wedding… Clusters of happy 14 families, snapping photographs I to record the moment. An instrumental “Od Yishama” piping through the speakers; enthusiastic young men dancing in circles to the music. Delicious hors d'oeuvres laid out on color-coordinated buffet tables; children eyeing them with impatient appetite. Distinguished rabbis preparing to speak. An atmosphere of excitement, of rejoicing; the sense of an event abounding with energy and emotion taking place. t certainly looked like a wedding. But it celebrate their weddings in the years to In less than a month, on Rosh Chodesh wasn't… Very soon indeed, one wed- come. Today, the throngs of elated guests Kislev, the first wedding would take ding after another would be taking were here to celebrate a major milestone place. The delighted chassan and kallah 15 I place in this sparklingly new for Yad Eliezer: the dedication of would welcome their wedding guests edifice. In fact, the hall – situ- Armanot Friedman, in hon- to a celebration they had feared could www.yadeliezer.org ated in Bnei Brak, a central or of Rabbi & Mrs. Jacob never take place. How could two young location accessible to most Friedman of Los Angeles, by people with little means and no outside of the country – will host their children, Rabbi David support host family and friends in a over 350 weddings each & Judy Friedman and Rabbi dignified manner? How indeed? If not year. This will enable many Aaron Dov & Devora Fried- for the new Yad Eliezer hall… more families to benefit man; a grand structure which from the same discounted would become the setting At today’s inaugural occasion, as on the cost arrangements that for thousands of weddings to wedding days to come, the assembled group are offered in Yad Eliezer’s come. One of the highlights of – staff members from Yad Eliezer Israel as Jerusalem location. the event was kvi'as mezuzah, well as its American Friends, donors and Today, however, the celebration was as our donors and partners from around the their families, and an array of distinguished about the building itself, and its capacity world came to join in this amazing inaugura- guests – enter through the grand entrance to enable thousands of needy couples to tion. Let the dedication begin! foyer into the vast space inside. They are

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We We We Can Did Will greeted by two grand halls sparkling with newness, nearly startling in their pristine very couple, elegance: To one side stands Ulam Wolff, universally, yearns to the grand wedding hall, donated by Mendy E and Slova Wolff of Lawrence, N.Y., donors of consecrate their entry the Wolff Hall in Jerusalem, who generously chose to contribute towards the expansion into married life with of Yad Eliezer’s “simcha potential” here in a ceremony they can Bnei Brak. On the other side awaits Ulam Stern, the Majestic Wedding Ballroom truly take pride in. dedicated by Mr. and Mrs. Jack Stern from Brazil. The delicate architecture of this well- As the dedication event continued, designed room gives the space an intimate guests were introduced to the built-in feel, though it encompasses room for 420 sound systems, a kitchen able to produce guests to eat and dance in comfort. 1,050 high-standard meals 16 daily, stylish tables and chairs, Standing together on a charming yichud room, and the Panoramic Chuppah numerous other classy and Rooftop, with its sweep- useful touches throughout. ing views of the Land of Every individual present Israel in the background could well imagine the and its state-of-the-art excitement of the future fiberglass chuppah canopy, brides and grooms who wedding guests will watch, would benefit from silent in their somber joy, all the splendid beauty as the bride encircles her surrounding them. husband-to-be, brachos are Yad Eliezer's first Simcha Venue, the recited, wine sipped, a glass shattered – Armonot Wolff Jerusalem wedding a new bayis ne’eman b’yisrael is conse- complex, has over 10 years been host crated, a new world emerges. to weddings for thousands of couples.

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We We We Can Did Will And every one of those to be turned away. Sadly, couples has a story… Many even a roster of multiple are orphans, some have weddings on every avail- parents unable to function able night was not suffi- due to physical or mental cient to keep up with the illness, others have been demand. To our great sor- working since adoles- row, far too many desperate cence to help support young couples had to be told: their families – all have “No.” overcome a course of But since that October day obstacles to reach this day. in Bnei Brak, we have been able Every couple, universally, yearns to to answer “Yes” much more. In truth, the consecrate their entry into married life joy of that memorable dedication ceremo- with a ceremony they can truly take pride ny was the joy of finally being able to say: in. It is unsurprising then that the wait- “Yes.” 17 ing list of couples hoping to benefit from Yes. Every chassan and kallah, no a Yad Eliezer-subsidized wedding was matter what their family background, always long. The Jerusalem halls were can celebrate a beautiful wedding. filled to capacity every night… and yet, so many brides who approached us had Yes. All parents can walk their children to the chuppah with dignity, without being overshadowed by he joy of that financial worries. Yes. Every couple getting married memorable dedication around the world can truly enhance ceremony was the joy the simcha of a needy couple in Israel T by sponsoring a wedding on the same of finally being able to night as their own. say: “Yes.” Mazal Tov!

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We We We Can Did Will The NEW Yad Eliezer Warehouse The Date: July 1, 2014, 3 Tammuz 5774 The Setting: Yad Eliezer Food Storage Facility & Packing Center, Jerusalem

18 one Month's Productivity Input Equipment: Output 5,000 easy-to-assemble Raw Products: cardboard boxes ONE newly renovated, 10,000 liters of oil 2 brand-new assembly-line state-of-the-art Yad 10,000 bags of flour work stations Eliezer Chesed Factory, 5,000 bags of sugar 555 sq. feet of shelving where volunteers pack 20,000 kilos of pasta 1 Baby Formula Distribution 5,000 food boxes – 20,000 cans of tuna Corner sufficient to supply over A hefty dash of cinnamon 1 Donations Storage Center 30,000 men, women and 5,000 bags of candy. 2 Packway Box Packaging children in 23 cities Factory Workers: Machines around Israel with their 20 families 1 Packway Industrial basic necessities – every 50 school groups Wrapping Machine month. 8 IDF units 2 forklifts 7 seminaries 2 Yad Eliezer trucks

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ummer 2014 marked the grand opening these procedures shipped out to families in need – but these www.yadeliezer.org of our newly refurbished warehouse. procedures occur with rapid speed and Our dedication of the renovated occur with efficiency in our now fully modernized facility. Sstorage and packing center represents the rapid speed and The story that culminates in the rededi- exhilarating climax to a long process that efficiency in cation of our incredible food packing fa- began earlier in the year with purchase of the cility really began over 30 years ago. The property, which Yad Eliezer had been renting our now fully original Yad Eliezer Chesed Factory was for so many years, followed by a top-to- modernized facility called Hadassah Weisel – a one-woman bottom – industrial flooring to impermeable chesed wonder. She began in 1980 by pro- roofing – overhaul of the facility. And what packing food boxes – but that packing viding one food parcel to a needy neighbor. an overhaul! Hundreds of volunteers, Israelis process runs far more smoothly than ever One parcel led to another, as each family from every segment of society and visitors before. Thousands of those lovingly packed in need told another about Hadassah. The from every corner of the globe, are again boxes are again being sealed, stacked and list grew each week until the Weisel home

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We We We Can Did Will as a few was no longer large enough to keep up what began with the growing need. A full-scale facility was needed, where food could be col- locals volunteering lected, stored, packed and shipped out to their time and the ever-increasing number of families who were turning to the recently established energy evolved into Yad Eliezer anti-hunger organization. a global social Eventually, in 1987, a property was found, phenomenon an old warehouse in an industrial neighbor- hood on the western side of Jerusalem. What action – and a range of other volunteers all this structure lacked in ambiance, it soon united by the Yad Eliezer Chesed Factory made up for in action – as it quickly took on sprit. a life of its own. It was transformed into a The humble Chesed Factory itself was central hub for giving, receiving and doing on “wall-papered” with ten-foot-high shelves behalf of Israel’s impoverished families. crammed with cooking ingredients, ready- 20 Indeed, what began with a few locals to-eat staples, snacks, and cleaning products volunteering their time and energy evolved that became the recipe for the now-famous into a global social phenomenon: Thou- Yad Eliezer Food Box. Beyond even its nour- sands of international visitors began to in- ishing contents, the nondescript Food Box tegrate a “mitzvah day” at the warehouse reflected the Yad Eliezer ethos of respect- into their Israel itinerary. Their work was ing human dignity. Thousands each month complemented by many others: were delivered directly to refrigerators and Elementary and high schools pantries throughout the seeking an active way to instill country, where grateful good values in their students; parents could mix to- seminaries and yeshivas incor- gether the range of edi- porating food-box packing into bles to create their own their chesed requirements, meals, and thus retain IDF officers enlisting their their status in the eyes of soldiers to engage in social their children.

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We We We Can Did Will Despite the incredible dedication it inspired, in neighborhoods around the country by the “old faithful” Yad Eliezer warehouse, which school-age children. Even the cans of baby had been overwhelmed over the years by the formula, distributed monthly to over 2,000 outpouring of food and volunteering contained newborns, now have their own corner in the within its walls, fell into disrepair. Renovations, Baby Formula Distribution Center. sprucing, rewiring, updated plumbing, Half a story above the warehouse technologically advanced floor is the Visitors Center, which machinery and more were serves as a conference room for of- urgently required. ficial meetings and a decorative re- 2014 marked the year ception area. Here, families who in which the necessity for choose to make volunteering at change was transformed Yad Eliezer a part of their Bar or into reality. Bat Mitzvah can celebrate their Today, the newly restored special milestone together warehouse proudly features: with family and friends. At the two independent work sta- new Yad Eliezer warehouse, ev- 21 tions, allowing for simultaneous erything, and everyone, has its place. packing by multiple groups; innovatively de- So much has changed. Yet one element signed shelves that allow for efficient access that remains the same, despite the transfor- to products; air conditioning, heating and a mation that has taken place, is the Yad Eliezer kitchenette for the comfort of employees Chesed Factory spirit. The new warehouse and volunteers; multimedia technology to may look different, but the enthusiasm, connect packers to the world of Yad Eliezer, warmth, and determination – and the 65,000 cutting-edge box-sealing and box-wrapping boxes produced each year – remain unwav- machines to enhance output productivity, and ering in their new surroundings, poised for an environmentally friendly cleaning machine even greater growth in the years to come. to ensure a facility as pristine as its idealis- We invite you to put the Yad Eliezer tic visitors. The Donations Storage Center Chesed Factory on your “must do” list for stores the huge crates of non-perishables – your next visit to Israel. We look forward to over $1 million worth last year – collected welcoming you!

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We We We Can Did Will IDa F: Operar tion Proteotectiveve Edge YadYad ElEliiezer:r: $1 MiMillillion Campmpaigaign “S“Stand Behind Isisrarael”l”

Supporting the South in Word and in Deed Israel Defense Forces: Battling in Y.E. Stand Behind Israel Campaign:Supplies Defense of the Land and the People for IDF Troops & Families Under Fire On July 8, 2014, following relentless With the launching of Operation Protective rocket fire targeting civilians in the Edge on July 8, 2014, Yad Eliezer immediately catapulted south of Israel and beyond, and in into action. That first week, as 50,000 residents of Israel’s the aftermath of the kidnapping of southern region suffered barrages of up to 20 the three yeshiva boys who were rockets a day, Yad Eliezer provided over $150,000 found murdered on June 30, the in food, games and toys to help make the long Israel Defense Forces initiated hot summer days in the shelters just a bit more Operation Protective Edge. A tolerable. Meanwhile, thanks to total of 82,201 IDF reservists the generous support of friends would be called up during the worldwide, funds were matched war. As the war was waged, to enable distribution of the first terrorists fired 3,360 rockets 2,000 care packages for soldiers within range of 3.5 million at the Gaza border. Israeli residents, leaving terror and trauma in their As Operation wake as Israelis nationwide raced to find Protective Edge protection each time the “red alert” sounded. Residents continued, life in the South was completely upended. It was of major population centers as far north as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and even 23 Zichron Yaakov, were forced several times to take cover. Meanwhile, the imperative that Yad Eliezer continue to provide beleaguered residents of the South saw their lives put on hold. Entire families with resources to withstand the crisis. families, even entire communities, spent days, and often nights, on end To achieve that, we would need help. But we inside their local bomb shelters. didn’t even have to ask: Jews across the globe were anxious to contribute. They appealed to On July 17, IDF ground troops moved into Gaza to locate and us, entreating Yad Eliezer to act as their conduit destroy the underground tunnel network used by Hamas to infiltrate in assisting everyone down South: soldiers going Israel. They ultimately demolished 32 terror tunnels, seized tons of into combat, proprietors of still-empty shops, anxious kids (literally) Hamas supplies intended for terrorism, and discovered plans for future climbing the walls. attacks. And we just kept meeting more people who On August 26, the 50-day operation came to a close as an needed our help: Worn-out parents who open-ended ceasefire was announced. The hadn’t slept in days, families who even under normal longest IDF operation in Gaza circumstances worried how to pay their bills, since Israel’s withdrawal from terrified teenagers yearning for routine. As sirens the coastal territory had wailed and missiles fell, Yad Eliezer distributed also been its deadliest: The another 3,200 high-quality toys and board operation claimed the lives games, 800 food boxes, $7,000 worth of baby of 64 soldiers, while 469 were formula for babies, $280,000 in food coupons wounded. Six civilians also lost for single-parent and other needy families. We their lives, including four-year-old also prepared 10 public shelters as playrooms, Daniel Tregerman, who was killed complete with counselors to offer children some by a mortar fired from Gaza. safe fun while giving their parents some relief. And of course there were the soldiers. Yad Eliezer staff was joined by Etz Chaim congregation of Livingston. N.J., followed by others determined to be with Israel, and its people, during their time of need. At the newly renovated Yad Eliezer warehouse, assembly lines of hundreds of volunteers packed constantly to meet the demand for IDF care packages. Meanwhile, the Yad Eliezer trucks accessed bases all along the Gaza border to personally deliver these gifts to soldiers. Many were in high-level combat infantry and ground force units. Others were members of the Air Defense division, Intelligence and the Military Police. Some young men awaited 24 orders to enter Gaza; others had returned from the latest battle. All were grateful for the warm words of encouragement, the expressions of support, the new pairs of tzitzis (thank you Young Israel of Kew Garden Hills!), and the lovingly prepared care packages. There were many ways to find strength during this tense time. For us at Yad Eliezer, we found strength in giving to those in need, and in the unity that bound us all together as one. We thank each and every one of you for joining us in supporting Israel and enabling us to provide a critical web of support during Operation Protective Edge and beyond. By the Num10,300ber Soldiers Lines Yad Eliezer on theCare Front Packages ($166,000)

1,720 Food Boxes to Families ($75,882) 4,000 Food Vouchers 25 ($412,500) 500 Post-War Food Coupons($108,000) 64 Single Mothers Assisted ($52,400)

7,200 Toys and Games to Children ($43,000) 1,550 supplies of Baby Formula ($14,600) 4,000 packages of School Supplies ($100,000)

29,334 People Assisted ($1,001,282)

Yad Eliezer The Two Israels: Poverty Report 2014

2014: The K family An April 2014 article in Bloomberg Business told the story of Mr. & Mrs. K and their four children: With their rental fees escalating beyond their means and their request for public housing rejected, the K family moved into a tent outside the city hall in the south- 26 ern coastal city of Ashkelon. They remained there until a friend of Ashkelon’s mayor covered the rent for another apartment. Mr. and Mrs. K earn a combined monthly income of 6,000 NIS ($1,721) from their jobs at a local beach resort. Despite the fact that both parents work, the family’s total income is beneath the State poverty line. The K family reflects a growing segment within the patchwork of Israel’s socioeconomic tapestry: the working poor. According to the National Insurance Institute’s annual poverty report, released most recently in December 2014, 18.6% of Israel’s families lived in poverty during the past year. This figure actu- ally represents an improvement from the previous

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We We We Can Did Will year’s 19.4% poverty rate. However, that entry of Amazon into the Israeli tech scene, amount means that 432,600 families, includ- the four superpowers of the technology Which is the “real” ing 756,900 children – a total of 1.6 million world – Google, Apple, Facebook and Ama- Israel: The nation people – lived beneath Israel’s poverty line* zon – now have an R&D presence in Israel. this past year. A rising number of these poor And in February 2015, Israel was ranked that's prospering at households include at least one working fifth in the Bloomberg Innovation Index, an adult. And in nearly 6% of these poor fami- annual ranking of countries that measures an unbelievable rate? lies (a small but significant increase from last performance in research and development, Or the one in which year), both parents are employed. Back in tech education, patents and other marks of 1999, just 2% were in this category. technology prowess. Israel did particularly over one-and-a-half- well in the R&D category, as well as in the 2014: Start-Up Israel number of research professionals and the million people are Israeli technology’s performance in 2014 percentage of those with advanced degrees was an outstanding one on multiple counts. mired in poverty? among the nation’s labor force. Startups raised $3.4 billion in investments, the most ever – more even than during the 2014: The Two Israels international hi-tech success is one major 27 bubble years of 1999 and 2000. Venture capital So which is the “real” Israel: The nation that reason that Israel’s economy has grown an funds, which provide most of the investments is growing and prospering at an unbelievable average of more than 4% a year for the last www.yadeliezer.org for startups, procured $910 million, the rate? Or the one in which over one-and-a- five years, far more than the 0.7% OECD most since 2008. Exits, the funds received half-million people are mired in poverty? average. Yet Israel also outpaces the pov- by companies acquired or conducting initial “In a nutshell, there are two Israels,” erty levels of most of the developed world, public offerings, reached $6.9 billion, making explains Dan Ben-David, executive direc- with its current status as having the highest 2014 one of the best years ever. tor of the Taub Center for Social Policy poverty rate of all 34 of the OECD coun- The start of 2015 is outdoing even the Studies in Jerusalem. Israel does indeed live tries! The paradox is resolved through an success of 2014. In just one week in January, up to its moniker as the “Start-Up Nation” understanding that both realities coexist Israeli startups did no less than $910 million (the nickname references the 2009 book in in a country whose economic growth has of deals of various sorts, the highlight be- which authors Dan Senor and Saul Singer been quite unevenly distributed, leading to ing Amazon’s purchase of Israeli Annapurna describe Israel as the foremost creator of an ever-increasing disparity between rich Labs for an estimated $370 million. With the new companies per capita in the world). Its and poor. * To be defined as beneath the poverty line in Israel, a single person must earn a monthly income of less than NIS 2,989 ($785), a couple less than NIS 4,783 ($1,260), and a family with three children less than NIS 9,000 ($2,400).

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We We We Can Did Will The Rich Get Richer – economy, the businesses underpinning the and the Poor? lives of the average Israeli – from local construction to orange growers – lack competi- Israel’s fiscal success has been exemplified by tion, according to David Gilo, head of Israel’s the nation’s economy outperforming that of Antitrust Authority. This, in turn, leads to high the U.S. and Europe during their recent years prices on consumer goods, even basic grocery of recession. Israel, in contrast, has enjoyed items. “Much of Israel’s economy remains virtually uninterrupted growth since it climbed highly concentrated,” Gilo said in a Tel Aviv out of its last recession more than a decade conference in February. “Because of this, Is- ago. During the recent recession that hit the raelis are suffering from a relatively high cost U.S. and Europe, Israel suffered no bank bail- of living.” outs, no debt crises and none of the wreckage from the burst housing bubble. 2014: The Good News Yet, Israel was ranked fourth in child pov- Israel’s unemployment rate was one of the erty in the developed world, according to an lowest in the developed world, averaging 5.9% 28 October 2014 Unicef report. One reason over the course of 2014, a dec34line from 6.2% why many Israeli citizens are not benefitting the previous year and a far lower rate than in from their country’s prosperity is, according the United States, most of Europe, and other to the Taub Center, the fact that a growing member OECD states. According to the Central number of people are unequipped to work in Bureau for Statistics (CBS), the Israeli workforce its high-tech-oriented economy. These individ- rose by 233,000 to 3.78 million people. This uals work in a range of low-tech and more tra- growth in employment, reflecting the expanding ditional fields, but fail to earn enough to raise of the economy to generate jobs to meet the themselves and their families into the comfort constant supply of job-seekers, came despite the zone of middle-class income stability. summer’s Operation Protective Edge and other Another source of Israel’s income gap factors that contributed to slower economic (ranked fourth among OECD states, behind growth. This increase in employment rates only Chile, Turkey and the U.S.) is the coun- was particularly evident among Israel’s charedi try’s many monopolies. Alongside successful community, and other sectors that are generally export companies, which make up 40% of the underrepresented in the labor market. Salaries

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We We We Can Did Will implemented as 2014 came to a close: Raising A combination of the minimum wage. Currently two parents, changes will be both earning the minimum wage, would not necessarily net a combined income above the necessary in order to poverty line. The 16% hike, slated to occur incrementally between 2105 and 2017, aims translate “work” into to change that. Lowering the cost of living – “moving out of poverty.” reducing food prices by increasing competi- tion and reducing housing prices by cutting have also risen, both among poor workers as construction bureaucracy and building more well as the working sector as a whole, although homes – will increase the buying power of the impact of the salary increase was canceled even those at the lowest rungs of society. out by the decrease in governmental child Programs to train newcomers to the em- stipends, which directly affects poverty levels. ployment world, giving low-level workers In what at first glance appears to be a con- the tools and skills to engage in better-paid 29 tradiction, this increase in employment is ac- professions, are also critical to breaking the tually one of the prime contributing factors cycle of “working poverty.” to the increase in the number of working A recent Gallup pool ranks Israel seventh poor. As increasing numbers of low-income on the “happiness index” among countries families move from having no wage earner to of the world, ahead of the United States and one, or from one wage earner to two, their the United Kingdom. Nearly two-thirds of income rises. However, most have entered Israelis (63%) feel “happy with their lives,” the employment world at entry level–posi- despite the unique challenges the nation’s tions, where a single (low) salary – or even residents face on all fronts, including eco- two combined salaries – may not suffice to nomic inequality. There is much to be done raise the family above the poverty line, par- in that regard, but the combined effort of ticularly if the family is a large one. national and local government, non-profit A combination of changes will be neces- organizations and the business community sary in order to translate “work” into “mov- can effect real change and increase financial ing out of poverty.” One critical change was security for the people of Israel.

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We We We Can Did Will The many Hands of Yad Eliezer Always Open, Always Giving to so many people, in so many ways

Yad Eliezer helps FOOD PROGRAMS fants in Israel receive the nutrition neces- Pantry Essentials Food Boxes Program, our sary for complete physical and psychological families maintain a hallmark and first program ever, packages development during the critical first year of sense of normalcy, and distributes food boxes filled with basic life. To this end, Yad Eliezer provides baby food staples and household essentials to over formula to over 2,000 babies, with each dignity, and stability 5,000 families each month. By supplying food newborn receiving a monthly delivery of 30 to the home rather than feeding people in a the formula supplement necessary for his/ despite their economic soup kitchen, Yad Eliezer helps families main- her healthy growth and development. constraints tain a sense of normalcy, dignity, and stability The program is carefully monitored to despite their economic constraints. Program ensure that it does not become a substi- ifference

D costs are kept to a minimum through the tute for nursing: Formula is distributed to purchase of all products at greatly discount- women who cannot nurse their own babies ed prices from food wholesalers. but are too poor to purchase a nutritional The heroes of this program are the supplement.

You Make the Make You thousands of volunteers who visited our Surplus Produce Program supplies 2,000 of warehouse this year – seminary and yeshiva Israel’s impoverished families with fresh fruits students, IDF soldiers, missions to Israel, and and vegetables. We do this by partnering extra-ordinary families like yours! – who assist with farmers who would otherwise destroy in packing and distributing the Food Boxes. Yad Eliezer their surplus produce to prevent supply provides baby Keren Eliyahu v’Esther Feed-A-Baby Pro- from overwhelming demand. This year, tons formula to over gram was established to ensure that all in- of fresh produce filled 2,000 babies Together

We We We Can Did Will Yad Eliezer’s refrigerated trucks and were delivered directly to the poor at distribution Our meals are the sites nationwide. We also delivered massive highlight of the week amounts of other surplus products, including dairy and packaged goods, donated by for these homebound several of Israel’s major food manufacturers, enabling us to offer a more nutritious and men and women. balanced diet to those who would otherwise as shoes and clothing on an as-need basis, subsist on the barest minimum. before Rosh Hashana and Pesach this year. acclaimed youth mentoring program. Yad Meals-on-Wheels Program utilizes its two Eliezer provides mentors to approximately Holiday Joy for IDF Soliders provides food industrial kitchens, one in Jerusalem and one 3,500 of Israel’s most disadvantaged children coupons and special gifts, at Rosh Hashana in northern Israel, to prepare and deliver – those growing up on the lowest rungs of and Pesach, to 300 IDF soldiers from disad- weekly Shabbos meals to the sick, disabled, the socioeconomic spectrum; in single- vantaged homes. and elderly of Israel, individuals who cannot parent homes; in families confronting the Chicken for Shabbos Program aims to re- damaging effects of illness, abuse, or drug prepare food for themselves. Each week, our 31 store dignity to families in extreme financial hot, nutritious meals, consisting of fish, salad, addiction. During their activities together

straits by giving them the means to celebrate www.yadeliezer.org chicken, kugel, cake, and a bottle of kiddush Big Brothers/Sisters model positive social Shabbos with their children “just like every- wine, are the highlight of the week for 500 one else.” Chickens are purchased wholesale homebound men and women nationwide. and distributed to 330 of our neediest families Holiday Distribution Fund brings the joy each week. Funding for this program, partially of Yom Tov to tens of thousands in Israel sponsored by the Apple Pie Fund of Baltimore by providing them with food and cloth- and Minneapolis, which commemorates the ing before the major holidays. Thanks to dedication of Mrs. Sarah Landesman, a”h, en- YE provides contributions from Yad Eliezer’s friends ables us to instill these homes with an atmo- mentors to around the world, we distributed over $1 sphere of Shabbos serenity and joy. 3,500 of Israel’s million dollars’ worth of food aid during disadvantaged each of the two main holiday seasons. This CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES children means over 12,000 families nationwide re- Big Brother/Yad Zvi Baruch Big Sister Pro- ceived food vouchers and chicken, as well gram is our highly-successful, government-

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We We We Can Did Will behaviors, healthy family relationships and dren in the early grades, focusing particularly improved academic skills while providing on students from the lowest rungs of the These services give much-needed warmth and attention to boys socioeconomic spectrum, whose disabilities children of widows the and girls hungry for affection. are least likely to be dealt with effectively. Shalhevet Early Learning Initiative was laun- This year, 550 children were treated with re- resources to grow to a ched to detect learning disabilities in the medial assistance in the Yad Eliezer resource early childhood years, when children are first rooms on yeshiva campuses. future of success learning to read, and thus prevent the devel- security for those struggling to rebuild their opment of consequent behavioral, emotional WIDOW & ORPHAN SUPPORT Keren Almanos provides financial support lives and homes. These support services of- and educational problems. Yad Eliezer em- fer assistance to widowed mothers while to over 630 widows who are raising children ploys professional special education teachers giving their children the resources to grow on their own. In Israel of today, single parent and reading specialists who visit schools not and develop alongside their peers towards a families – 91% of which are led by the moth- serviced by the State. They evaluate the chil- future of maturity and success. er – are disproportionately represented in the nation’s poverty statistics, as the woman The Young Israel Kew Garden Hills (YIKGH) 32 Yad Eliezer employs must bear sole responsibility for both the Charity Fund, a New York organization emotional and economic support of her chil- that uses 100% of funds raised to provide specialists who visit dren. This program offers a monthly stipend food and clothing for Israel’s needy, has schools not serviced that is carefully calibrated to each family’s since 2012 worked in partnership with Yad specific situation and serves as a critical force Eliezer, which acts as its “eyes and ears” on by the State in empowering fiscal independence. Our work for these families in distress is complemented by three vital programs created by friends of Yad Eliezer: The Chanan & Miriam Vim Memorial Widows & Orphans Fund, the Keren Yaakov Zev Orphan Sup- port Services and the Mary Parasol Orphan Education Fund all aim to ease the economic and emotional burden of bereaved families, instilling a measure of financial reliability and YE provides financial support to Together over 600 widows We We We Can Did Will placement counselors assist all graduates in finding suitable positions. Careful pre- Zichron Yehuda Leib screenings of applicants and the high motiva- has the potential to tion of program participants contribute to an extremely high retention rate. transform the future for Zichron Yehuda Leib is a new fund with the young people potential to transform the future for young people who have lots of ambition and drive – vidually for its feasibility. As a social-economic the ground in Israel to identify and distribute but insufficient resources to realize their goals: impact program, the Microfinancing Initiative aid to those who need it most. The Queens Students of higher education, who have com- is aimed at low-income individuals aiming to community has been extremely generous pleted vocational, professional or academic become self-sufficient. Grants have gone to- and this program has been instrumental in programs but have been denied their diploma wards a wide range of uses, including working changing the lives of so many women strug- and/or permission to take their certification capital, inventory, supplies, furniture, fixtures, gling alone. The fund – which provided over exams because of outstanding tuition debt, machinery and equipment, and are often dis- $1.4 million in 2014 – focuses specifically on can apply for this scholarship. The fund will tributed in installments: an initial Stage 1 grant 33 aid to (1) single mothers, with divorcees and give a grant of up to $1,000 to clear their out- for business start-up, followed by a Stage 2 agunot receiving food coupons, as well as standing debt in full. To qualify for this scholar- installment to allow for continued progress www.yadeliezer.org clothing and school supplies for their chil- ship, students must demonstrate that the Yad once initial success has been demonstrated. dren; and (2) yeshiva school teachers, with Eliezer grant represents the final tuition fee Success Stories 2014: A graphic artist “left be- qualified recipients receiving monthly cou- owed and will enable them to graduate. hind” because her old computer would not run pons for use in their local supermarkets. The Miriam & Moshe Friedman Microfinanc- updated graphics programs received a brand- SOCIAL SERVICES ing Initiative, dedicated by their grandchildren new PC; a cook given the means to install a Job Opportunity Training Program gives Mr. and Mrs. David Solomon and funded by professional kitchen now caters major events; people the skills they need to become pro- the Leichtag Foundation in memory of Miriam a would-be seamstress without a sewing ma- ductive in a trade or profession and to at- and Moshe Friedman, offers grants and loans chine is now supporting her family; a driver who tain financial independence. This year, we of $2,500 to $8,000 to start or expand a planned to start a car service – the Initiative offered professional training in accounting, small business. Applicants must submit a busi- financed a rental car as an initial evaluation photography, and technical trades – fields ness plan with concrete and measurable ob- stage; then happily financed an auto purchase with potential for dignified employment. Job jectives, and each application is assessed indi- once his new business proved its viability.

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We We We Can Did Will The YE Tzfat Dental Clinic receives over viding monetary grants and loans to cover maze of complex medical terminology and 2,600 annual the cost of their one-time urgent need. Re- treatment options, and as patient advocates, visits quests pour in daily for this emergency as- helping to expedite provision of hospital care sistance. However, each applicant is subject modalities as needed. to a sensitive but meticulous review process Winter Warmth 2014: Israel may be situat- to ensure his eligibility. Qualified applicants ed deep inside the Mediterranean Basin, but then receive the amount necessary for them winter, especially in Jerusalem, Tzefat, and to overcome their current crisis situation. A other high-altitude areas, is far from tropical. total of $3.5 million was distributed in 2014. During this year's fiercest storms, as tem- The Community Dental Clinic in Tzfat peratures plummeted, snow piled up, and received over 2,600 annual patient visits cyclonic winds roared, Yad Eliezer’s Winter Emergency Assistance Fund offers sup- from residents of this northern city and Warmth 2014 campaign ensured that the na- port to those facing a major life crisis. Many the surrounding towns this past year. Our tion’s oldest and youngest residents – and low- and middle-income families cannot set clinic provides the highest level of medical everyone in between – remained warm and aside regular savings to build themselves a expertise, but with such cost-efficiency safe despite the elements, providing 4,500 34 financial “safety net,” so cases of emergency that we can offer this care at prices that are coats, 1,500 heaters and 6,000 quilts to – whether health issue, sudden job loss, or affordable for all. Children, who make up many of those who otherwise would have major house damage – can literally destroy two-thirds of the patient roster, are treated been forced to suffer winter's icy impact. them. Our program, partially funded by the for free; adults pay just a minimal fee for Keren Yisroel Mordechai endowment, aims treatments. The Yad Eliezer dental centers SPECIAL Occasions to save these families from collapse by pro- also work to educate the public and increase Bar Mitzvah Twinning Project gives Bar Mitz- awareness of dental hygiene, teaching vah boys from around the world the singular children healthy habits to last a lifetime. opportunity to “twin” with their counterparts Medical Support Services offers a help- in Israel. This special program had 91 partnering hand to cancer patients in the oncol- ships this year! Every partnership reflects the ogy, hematology, bone marrow transplant choice of a bar mitzvah boy and his family and cancer immunotherapy departments of to make tzedakah a fundamental element of the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem. their own celebration. At the same time, they Yad Eliezer staff members serve as patient are giving a needy thirteen-year-old in Israel liaisons, accompanying patients through the his first pair of tefillin, as well as the invaluable

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We We We Can Did Will feelings of self-respect and “normalcy” that that every bride should have the opportunity represent true reasons to celebrate. to have a beautiful first home – and that it Adopt-a-Wedding Partnership enables cou- should be the home she pictured in her own Yad Eliezer ples around the world to enhance the beauty imagination. That’s why, when one of “our” celebrated over of their own wedding day by simultaneously brides becomes engaged, she immediately re- 700 weddings sponsoring a wedding in Israel. Through our ceives a phone call to set her mind at ease. this year Gitty Perkowski Simcha Fund, these spon- This fund provided 148 orphaned brides sors make it possible for Yad Eliezer to ca- each with a refrigerator, oven, washing ma- ter simple but elegant weddings at our Yad chine, and other household appliances. Best Eliezer halls for couples who otherwise could of all, each bride chooses all of these items not afford even the most basic affair, so that herself – so she can feel a true sense of pride every bride and groom can enjoy the oppor- in the layout of her new home. tunity to celebrate their life milestone with Lev Georgie: This endowment enables Yad pride. We celebrated 725 weddings this year! Eliezer to give gift certificates for clothes, to-be-married young men who turn to us Keren Yehudit: From the moment of her en- shoes and coats to some of our most indi- have expanded this unique program to ensure 35 gagement, a bride begins to picture the home gent brides. No matter what her family and that chassanim from the most disadvantaged www.yadeliezer.org she and her husband-to-be will build togeth- financial circumstances, we want to ensure backgrounds can anticipate their wedding day er. But when the bride is an orphan, there that every young woman can “go shopping” is little expectation of domestic luxury – she – to choose the apparel she needs to start with serenity and pride. Thanks to Birkas Ra- hopes merely to scrape together the mini- out married life. chel, our chassanim – over 80 in the past year mum for some functional necessities. Keren Kol Kallah Bridal Fund: This year over 750 – were able to dress proudly in a new kittel Yehudit aims to change all that. We believe women received two gift certificates redeem- and tallis, with the sense of dignity this once- able at participating stores, the first towards in-a-lifetime day demands. Partnerships enable household and kitchen essentials and the second for personal items, giving each bride the couples to enhance opportunity to shop for herself as she pre- the beauty of their pares to enter this new stage in her life. Birkas Rachel Chassan Fund: And what about own wedding the groom? Our partners in helping the soon-

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We We We Can Did Will שלום! How are you? Bonjour! ¿Que pasa?

YadEliezer.org Expands in the 36 Era of Global Communication

he concept of communication is as old as humanity it- International communication in its essence, however, is still all ifference

D self. From the Latin root of “communicare,” to share about communication. Fostering connections among people, shar- or relate to, people have been sharing ideas, whether ing ideas, reporting on important events, relating stories: whether throughT speech, writing, art, music or other means, since time on tablet or parchment the goal remains the same. immemorial. And it is communication that has been the goal of YadEliezer.org

You Make the Make You Today, however, we seem to have advanced eons away from since its launch in 2006. Our interactive website was designed these original forms of discourse. International communication, a to connect the international Yad Eliezer family, from Australia constant flow of ideas that is not limited by space or time, has to Belgium, South Africa to Hong Kong. The technology of com- become the norm. Transnational communication gives us an eye- munication has rapidly developed since then, and YadEliezer.org witness view of events in the remotest locations and enables us has expanded with it, making Yad Eliezer accessible to users to communicate with people across regional borders and even in of laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other forms of online distant lands. interfacing.

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We We We Can Did Will

Des produits laitiers ȧ l'attention des Les histoires qu'on adore entendre... Une histoire de tous jours: Cofix, Soldados del Curso de Oficiales Historias de donaciones con valor Un empresario que quebró, solicitó démunis cette dame, et mai. ayudan. ¿Los reconocen? agregado anular la boda de su hija www.yadeliezer.org

This year, we opted for yet another expression of global inter- course good old phones, fax or postal mail, we look forward to activity as we expanded the Yad Eliezer communication space in maintaining our international – yet always personal – com- new directions – launching YadEliezer.org in Hebrew, French and munication with you during the year to come. Spanish. Readers from Europe, South America and the Middle East 2014 Communication Statistics: can now comfortably connect with the entire Yad Eliezer family, Yad Eliezer on Facebook, in both Hebrew benefitting from the constant flow of news up- and English, including our all-new Austra- dates, visual essays and blog entries that keep lian Friends of Yad Eliezer Facebook page: donors up to date on all of the action. 25,800 fans. We invite you to avail yourself of the new Donations via the website totaled: YadEliezer.org language options and to connect $2,647,000, with an average contribution with us about what most matters to you. Wheth- amount of $145. Monthly recurring donations er via email, website comments, Facebook, and of rose to just under $26,000.

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We We We Can Did Will Leave a Legacy Make the World a Better Place

Our friends around the world prioritize giving to Yad Eliezer as a means of improving the lives of thousands of men, women and children in Israel 38 each year. Many donors wish they could offer a lasting form of support to Israel’s families in a way that fits

ifference in with their own financial framework. D Yad Eliezer has now developed its own Leave a Legacy program, which enables donors to make sustained You Make the Make You charitable gifts that support Yad Eliezer over the long term.

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We We We Can Did Will Why Leave a Legacy? Who Can Leave a Legacy? How to Leave a Legacy? • Create a fund to honor or remember Leaving a gift to benefit Yad Eliezer is a There are many different ways to Leave your a loved one meaningful form of giving that is open to Legacy. For your first step, we invite you to • Plan for the transfer of specific assets individuals of all income levels. Indeed, explore which options works best for you. leaving a legacy gift in a will or estate plan • Create a lasting reminder to your family Please contact our Legacy Director: is an expression of extraordinary 39 of your commitment to Israel and the Aryeh Tropper: 718-986-4525 generosity that we see in people from all Jewish people [email protected] walks of life – with different income levels, • Ensure that your estate will be All inquiries are held in the strictest interests and passions. Each person who distributed in line with your personal confidence. makes such a contribution benefits from values the enduring nature of a legacy: You will It is always important to discuss these • Leave a charitable legacy for future continue to make a transformative impact donation options with a trusted professional generations on Israeli society in perpetuity through a advisor who can guide you in determining lasting contribution to Yad Eliezer. the best way to structure your legacy gifts. Facts & Families receiving assistance Over 20,000 Figures 2014 Annual Budget Over $35 million Yad Eliezer volunteers Over 12,000 From how many countries? Over 55 Pantry Essentials Food Box monthly recipients 5,000 families Food Boxes delivered this year 65,000 Food Boxes packed since opening of the new warehouse 32,000 Babies receiving monthly Feed-a-Baby Formula 2,094 Families receiving Surplus Produce 2,000 Individuals receiving weekly Meals-on-Wheels 500 Families receiving Holiday food packages 12,000 Soldiers receiving Holiday gifts 300 Boys benefitting from a Big Brother3,000 Girls benefitting from a Yad Zvi Baruch Big Sister500 40 Students studying in the Shalhevet Initiative 550 Widows receiving Keren Almanos stipends Over630 Support provided through the Young Israel Kew Garden Hills Charity Fund $1.4 million Support provided through Emergency Assistance Fund $3.5 million ifference Patients at the Tzefat Community Dental Clinic

D 2,659 Bar Mitzvah Twinnings 91 Adopt-a-Wedding Partnerships 725 Weddings held in the new Bnei Brak wedding hall 59 Couples benefitting from Newlywed Assistance Funds1,026

You Make the Make You Winter Warmth Campaign 2014 4,500 coats; 1,500 heaters; 6,000 quilts Stand Behind Israel Campaign for Soldiers and families during Operation Protective Edge 2014 $1 million Soldiers benefitting from Stand Behind Israel Campaign10,300 Kiryat Shemoneh

Naharia Hatzor Around Israel HaGlilit Safed Akko

Kiryat with Yad Eliezer Haifa Haim Karmiel Meitsar Tiberias

Rehasim

From north to south, desert to coast, small town Zikhron Ya'akov to big city – from Afula to Ashdod, Tzfat to Eilat, Yad Eliezer is creating a better future for tens of thousands of families throughout Israel. Thank you for helping us transform the map of Hadera Israel’s tomorrow! Netanya Elon Moreh

Ra’anana

Emanu'el Itamar Pardes Ariel Katz El'ad Givat Peduel 41 Shmuel Petach Bnei Brak Tikva Shilo Ganei

Mateh www.yadeliezer.org Tel Aviv- Tikvah Rosh Binyamin Yaffo HaAyin Holon Bat Yam Brachfeld Kohav Kfar Hashmonaim Hashahar Chabad Matityahu Lod Neot Rehovot Kiryat Hapisga Beit El Sefer Nof Shaalvim Ayalon Tel Zion Ashdod Beit TelzStone Hilkiya Yesodot Givat Beit Ze’ev Meir Nitzanim Jerusalem Beit Shemesh Beitar Ashkelon Illit

Karmei Tsur Meitsad Kiryat Gat Komemiyut Hebron Kiryat Arba

Tifrah Netivot Ofakim

Beer Arad Sheba

Yeruham

Eilat FInancial report 2014

Operating Expenses Income Source Amount USD $ % of Total Source Amount USD $ % of Total Food/Holiday Programs 12,894,372 36.33 % Overseas 25, 058,578 69.44 % Feed-a-Baby 755,201 2.13 % Israel 8,412,322 23.31 % Purim Distribution 472,416 1.33 % Big Brother/Sister 2,617,838 7.25 % Job Training 60,050 0.17 % Total Income $36,088,738 Emergency Fund 3,535,509 9.96 % Surplus $597,397 Medical 56,216 0.16 % 42 Dental Clinic 69,474 0.20 % Winter Coats and Quilts 108,294 0.31 % Food Big Brother/Sister 3,053,886 8.60 % Programs Stipends 5,659,531 15.95 % 39.79 % Shalhevet 558,502 1.57 % ifference Widows & Orphans Support 4,150,668 11.69 % D Weddings 2,412,608 6.80 % Celebration Kol Kallah Bridal Fund 243,022 0.68 % Social Assistance Keren Yesomos Appliances 285,460 0.80 % Services 8.53 % 48.61 % Bar Mitzvah 87,747 0.25 % General &

You Make the Make You General and Administrative 1,088,385 3.07 % Administrative 3.07% Total Expenses $35,491,341 97% of every dollar you donate goes directly to the families who need your help most. Every Donation Makes a Difference!

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We We We Can Did Will With friends, donors, and supporters on six continents and four hemispheres – from Africa to Around the World Asia, Europe to North America, South America to Australia – your support has transformed Yad with Yad Eliezer Eliezer into a truly international phenomenon. Thank you for your part in creating the global Sweden Faroe Finland Yad Eliezer family! Islands Norway

United Denmark Canada Ireland Kingdom Netherlands Poland Belgium Germany Czech Republic France Switzerland Slovakia Hungary Austria Monaco USA Spain Italy Portugal Turkey Korea Gibraltar Tunisia China Japan Israel

Bahrain Mexico Dominican Taiwan Republic Puerto Rico Virgin Honduras Islands El Barbados Philippines Salvador Thailand Costa Rica Trinidad Panama Venzuela Cameroon Malaysia Singapore Columbia

Brazil Peru

Australia South Chile Africa

Uruguay letters of Endorsement

June 1, 2013 Sori Tropper American Friends of Yad Eliezer 1102 East 26th Street Brooklyn, NY 11210 October 1, 2014 Dear Sori Tropper: Sori Tropper American Friends of Yad EliezerOn behalf of Charity Navigator, I wish to congratulate American Friends of Yad Eliezer on achieving our coveted 1102 East 26th Street 4-star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. As the nonprofit sector continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, savvy donors are demanding more accountability,Brooklyn, NY 11210 Dear Sori Tropper: transparency and quantifiable results from the charities they choose to support with their hard-earned dollars. In this competitive philanthropic marketplace, Charity Navigator, America's premier charity evaluator, highlights the fine work of efficient, ethical and open charities. Our goal in all of this is to provide donors with essential informationOn behalf of Charity Navigator, I wish to congratulate American Friends of Yad Eliezer on achieving our coveted needed to give them greater confidence in the charitable choices they make.4-star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. Based on the most recent information available, we have issued a new rating for your organization. We are proud toAs the nonprofit sector continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, savvy donors are demanding more accountability, announce American Friends of Yad Eliezer has earned our second consecutive 4-star rating. Receiving four out of atransparency and quantifiable results from the charities they choose to support with their hard-earned dollars. In this possible four stars indicates that your organization adheres to good governance and other best practices that minimizecompetitive philanthropic marketplace, Charity Navigator, America's premier charity evaluator, highlights the fine 44 the chance of unethical activities and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way. Only 17% of thework of efficient, ethical and open charities. Our goal in all of this is to provide donors with essential information charities we rate have received at least 2 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that American Friends of Yadneeded to give them greater confidence in the charitable choices they make. Eliezer outperforms most other charities in America. This “exceptional” designation from Charity Navigator differentiates American Friends of Yad Eliezer from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust. Based on the most recent information available, we have issued a new rating for your organization. We are proud to announce American Friends of Yad Eliezer has earned our third consecutive 4-star rating. Receiving four out of a Forbes,possible four stars indicates that your organization adheres to good governance and other best practices that minimize Business Week, and Kiplinger's Financial Magazine, among others, have profiled and celebrated our unique method of applying data-driven analysis to the charitable sector. We evaluate ten times more charities than our nearestthe chance of unethical activities and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way. Only 12% of the competitor and currently attract more visitors to our website than all other charity rating groups combined, thus makingcharities we rate have received at least 3 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that American Friends of Yad us the leading charity evaluator in America. Our data shows that users of our site gave more than they planned toEliezer outperforms most other charities in America. This “exceptional” designation from Charity Navigator

ifference before viewing our findings, and in fact, it is estimated that last year Charity Navigator influenced approximately $10differentiates American Friends of Yad Eliezer from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust. billion in charitable gifts. D Forbes, Business Week, and Kiplinger's Financial Magazine, among others, have profiled and celebrated our unique We believe our service will enhance your organization's fundraising and public relations efforts. Our favorable reviewmethod of applying data-driven analysis to the charitable sector. We evaluate ten times more charities than our nearest of American Friends of Yad Eliezer's fiscal health and commitment to accountability & transparency will be visible oncompetitor and currently attract more visitors to our website than all other charity rating groups combined, thus making our website as of June 1st.us the leading charity evaluator in America. Our data shows that users of our site gave more than they planned to before viewing our findings, and in fact, it is estimated that last year Charity Navigator influenced approximately $10 billion in charitable gifts.We wish you continued success in your charitable endeavors. We believe our service will enhance your organization's fundraising and public relations efforts. Our favorable reviewSincerely, of American Friends of Yad Eliezer's fiscal health and commitment to accountability & transparency is now visible on our website. You Make the Make You We wish you continued success in your charitable endeavors. Sincerely, Ken Berger President & Chief Executive Officer

Ken Berger President & Chief Executive Officer

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We We We Can Did Will Letter of Approbation by Gedolei Yisrael

Since its inception over three decades ago, Yad Eliezer has been inspired by the guidance and encouragement of the Gedolei Yisrael, the rabbinic leaders of the global Jewish community. The letter below highlights the years of “pioneering dedication” by Yad Eliezer to supporting those in need through a system modeled on personal idealism and financial integrity, and ends with a bracha to all those who contribute towards Yad Eliezer's continuing efforts on behalf of Israel's families. Signatories to this endorsement are Hagaon Harav Nissim Karelitz, Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky & Hagaon Harav Aryeh Leib Shteinman.

45 www.yadeliezer.org

Translation of above: State of Israel Ministry of Justice – Non-Profit Authority Registrar of Non-Profit Organizations 2 Kislev 5775/26 October 2014 To: Yad Eliezer (certified non-profit) , Polanski 12, Jerusalem 9527114 Non-Profit ID# 580060069, Non-Profit Name: Yad Eliezer Subject: Certificate of Proper Management for 2015 As per your request regarding approval for the year 2015, we hereby certify that your organization fulfills all of the legally mandated criteria for non-profit organizations insofar as the submission of reports, notifications and protocols. This certification will be revoked if it is discovered that the organization had violated any of the laws concerning proper administration of non-profits. This authorization is valid until 31 December 2015. This organization was established on 4 April 1984. Sincerely yours, Nimrod Shalvi, Comptroller, Non-Profit Registrar

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We We We Can Did Will director’s letter

age children, meals for 500 elderly men and There is the family whose father, the pri- Dear Friends, women, 725 weddings for Israeli couples. mary breadwinner, was injured in a terrorist There has been much to report on this Here at Yad Eliezer, “numbers” never attack and now needs to retrain in a new 46 year. New construction: New wedding become “statistics.” They are – and will employable field; the 83-year-old immigrant halls, our newly renovated warehouse. The always be – individuals. The people who from Slovakia who lives entirely alone, her call of the moment: Yad Eliezer’s aid cam- turn to us for help are never “the poor” and children far away in Eastern Europe; the paign for IDF soldiers and residents of the “the needy.” They are always real people: ifference south during Operation Protective Edge. men, women, and children, old and young, D Our programs to feed, assist, empower religious and secular, native Israelis and Here and mentor young and old, nationwide. recent immigrants, large families and those at Yad Eliezer, What do all of these programs, projects living alone. People who find themselves

You Make the Make You and campaigns have in common? Individuals. in challenging, sometimes overwhelmingly “numbers” never Here at Yad Eliezer, our numbers do keep difficult, circumstances. People who turn to become “statistics.” on growing. We helped well over 100,000 us for support to overcome these obstacles people this year, including food baskets for and forge ahead on a path of courage and They are – and 5,000 families, baby formula for 2,000 in- change, a path towards achievement of will always be – fants, aid packages for 10,300 IDF soldiers, dignity and self-respect, a path, above all, Big Brothers and Sisters for 3,500 school- of hope. individuals.

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We We We Can Did Will young soldier who chose to remain on duty With your help, these individuals can Each one of those individuals thanks you even during vacations – knowing that on the become: a father, recovering from injury, for your support. We at Yad Eliezer thank base, unlike in his own home, he will be fed who finds dignified employment in a new you too. three meals a day; the orphaned bride who field, a cheerful senior who looks forward With appreciation and best wishes, hopes that years of high-school babysitting to “schmoozing” with her Meals-on-Wheels Dov Weizel income will be sufficient to stock her kitch- volunteer, an 18-year-old IDF recruit who Executive-Director, Yad Eliezer en; the newborn twins born to a mother goes home for Pesach, bringing wine and Jerusalem undergoing chemotherapy, the ordinary matzah from Yad Eliezer for his whole family family whose frugal liv- to enjoy, a glowing young woman staring ing standards are sim- open-mouthed at a room full of brand- ply not enough to new electrical appliances, well-nourished get them through twins celebrating their first birthday… the month… There are no statistics here, only individuals seeking our support, and yours. 47 www.yadeliezer.org

The design and printing of this report has been sponsored by: Contact the Yad Eliezer office nearest you: join the UNITED STATES Sori Tropper [email protected] (718)258-1580 Yad Eliezer American Friends of Yad Eliezer 1102 East 26th Street Brooklyn, NY 11210 USA Family... ISRAEL Meira Bauminger, Program Coordinator [email protected] (02)591-2200 Yad Eliezer Headquarters P.O. Box 41074, Jerusalem 91410, ISRAEL CANADA Esther Sora Gestetner, (514)735-2833 [email protected] Montreal: Canadian Friends of Yad Eliezer c/o Esther Sora Gestetner, 1943 Clinton Montreal, Quebec H3S 1L2, CANADA Toronto: Canadian Friends of Yad Eliezer c/o Chaya Salamon, 1 Forestwood Toronto, ON M5N 2V5, CANADA ENGLAND Ben Chontow, UK Coordinator [email protected] (0208)455-8394 Yad Eliezer Trust c/o Mr. B. Chontow 69 Golders Gardens, London, NW11 9 BS, UK South Africa Saul Sackstein, SA Coordinator [email protected] (083) 416 4267 P.O. Box 675, Highlands North, 2037 Johannesburg, South Africa AUSTRALIA Rose Mehlman, Australia Coordinator [email protected] (039)532-8350, (041)703-4994 Visit us online at: www.yadeliezer.org Agudat Yad Eliezer c/o Rose Mehlman Email us at: [email protected] 7 Morrice Street, N. Caulfield, Vic. 3161, AUSTRALIA