We all try our best, but in difficult economic times like these, we can’t always contribute as much as we’d like to.  Here is an opportunity to give back to not only Israel, but assist the sick and helpless, in a way that won’t hurt your pocket.  What could be better than that? 
 
Our Central Board approved an initiative from the Mashadi Community to collect $20, no more, no less, per member of a family (i.e. $60 per family of 3). Our hope is to arrive at a total of $40,000 which would be donated in the name of UMJCA to the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, Israel.  The Barzilai Medical Center is known for it’s proximity to the Gaza district.   It has become the sole front line hospital to absorb all the injured, civilians and military, in any case of major confrontation. During the last six years, thousands of Qassam missiles were launched to Sderot, Ashkelon, and the surrounding Kibbutzim resulting in five deaths and more than thousand of patients treated at the Barzilai Medical Center for multiple injuries and acute stress disorders.  Some of the Qassam missiles missed the Barzilai Medical Center and landed few hundred meters outside the fence, but it is only a matter of time until a Qassam missile hits one of the hospital structures.  This situation urges us to be continuously prepared and able to deliver the best medical treatment to all the injured, civilians and soldiers.  It is almost impossible to cope with and fund the necessary medical services alone. The Barzilai Medical Center has the lowest hospital bed rate per 1000 population in Israel and it is constantly occupied over 100%. The hospital depends almost absolutely on the budget of the Ministry of Health. 
 
This is where our community can help.  Individually it would be difficult to raise $40,000.  But together, as a community, this is an achievable goal.  We can do it!  Our efforts will be recognized with a plaque and a dedicated room at the Barzilai Medical Center named after our community.  Every donation will be recognized, and your efforts will be acknowledged.  This is a wonderful opportunity to not only give back to Israel, but assist the needy, and affiliate our community’s reputation for generosity with this hospital.  It won’t take much of your time, or much of your money, but it will make a big difference. 
 
If you are interested in participating in this wonderful mitzvah please contact the following people. Checks can be made to UMJCA.     
 
Tizku L’Mitzvot!