The months following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war have seen an increase in the arrival of Jews from North America to volunteer in Israel.
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OU Israel provides them with opportunities to help the hundreds of farmers in need of assistance following the devastation of communities in the Gaza periphery and the mass departure of foreign workers.
The organization has been sending on average fifty volunteers a week, both those from Israel and those from abroad, on buses to go to different areas to help with various needs in Israel.
Hundreds of volunteers and tourists have been joined by English-speaking immigrants, both new and veteran olim, from teenagers to senior citizens who want to help.
Volunteer Adina Muehglay, from Passaic, NJ, who volunteered to pick citrus fruits together with her son in the Hod Hasharon area said, "We cannot thank the OU enough for this opportunity. I am ecstatic to be here in Eretz Yisrael [the land of Israel] walking the land, being with Klal Yisrael [the Jewish people]. It is such an incredible privilege."
Peri Garfinkel, a resident of Jerusalem, who volunteered to pick fruit with her granddaughter, said, "I made aliyah two and a half years ago to Jerusalem. We are so happy to be helping in the war effort and picking oranges. I hear that they really need us so I feel very good about it."
OU Israel Program Director Rabbi Sam Shor said, "There is such a spirit of unity and desire on behalf of Jews across the globe to give and support Israel in any way possible during this difficult period. Through OU Israel's efforts to provide support to Israeli farmers, so many people have found a meaningful and enjoyable way to do their individual part, assist the farmers, and provide the farmers with tremendous emotional support and encouragement as well. Our many busloads of volunteers of all ages have been comprised of both veteran and recent olim as well as many tourists who have come specifically to help Israel during this time. OU Israel is happy to provide these opportunities, which make it possible specifically for English speakers who might have a harder time learning about and finding opportunities to volunteer, with meaningful ways to contribute."
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According to OU Israel Executive Director Rabbi Avi Berman, "We are seeing a unity in Am Yisrael that warms our hearts. Despite the many difficulties since the beginning of the war, Jews of all walks of life have turned to us every day with a desire to give, a desire to be part of the story of the Jewish people. They want to travel the country, help the youth who are evacuated from their homes, pick its fruits, and help the soldiers in any way necessary. The unity is incredible, and we pray that we will continue to see this spirit of togetherness long-term."
