17TH OF TAMMUZ & 9TH OF AV

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Uplift the Three Weeks with Ahavat Chinam

Every year, the joy of summer is tempered by the ‘Bein Hametzarim’-the mournful ‘Three Weeks’ on the Jewish calendar. Beginning with 17 Tammuz and culminating with the somber Tisha B’Av (9th of Av), Judaism's most painful date in history is marked by countless tragedies. We struggle with the anguish, destruction and loss that characterize this time of year.

We struggle with them, but we don’t lose hope-hope that next year it will be a different story, that next year will be better.

At American Friends of Yad Eliezer/B'ezri we work daily with individuals and families who face the most difficult of situations yet never give up hope. Some are battling illness or injury or have lost loved ones to war and terrorism. Others go hungry, especially as food costs continually escalate. Still others face challenges with unemployment and can’t pay basic utility bills. The list goes on and on. Yet despite their many challenges, they haven't given up hope for a better future. They are grateful they can receive urgent support that alleviates the strain.

This summer AFYE/B'ezri is providing crucial support to families throughout Israel including 1,800 divorced mothers struggling to cover the bare minimum, 1,950 families facing financial setbacks and other hardships, and 714 widows fighting to keep families afloat. Through food assistance, help with camp fees, utility bills and other essential needs, we are easing their burden during these long, expensive months.

The Jewish people never give up hope.
At American Friends of Yad Eliezer/B'ezri we live hope, and we have seen its power transform lives.
As the Ninth of Av quickly approaches, please help us continue to bring help and hope to Israel’s neediest. And perhaps this will be the last sorrowful Tisha B’Av.