As Jewish communities worldwide watched in horror as the events of October 7 unfolded in Israel, many felt a desperate need to help. While numerous organizations sprang up overnight to support Israel’s soldiers, one organization had already been doing this vital work for nearly two decades: Yashar LaChayal.
Founded in the wake of the Second Lebanon War in 2006, Yashar LaChayal has been providing for our soldiers for 18 years.
Their mission? To ensure that those who protect the Jewish homeland have the essentials they need so they can focus on the fight at hand.
On October 8th, while many of us were still tying to process the shocking news, this organization was already mobilizing, leveraging its years of experience and established networks to get crucial supplies to soldiers on the front lines.
Leon Blankrot, Founder and Executive Director of Yashar LaChayal, recalls those first chaotic days: “Our soldiers left their homes in such a hurry, many without even packing a bag. Reservists in their 30s were wearing the same worn-out boots from their active duty days. We knew we had to act fast.”
Within hours, Yashar LaChayal had launched a massive campaign to provide tens of thousands of essential items for troops and opened an emergency distribution center. From basic necessities like underwear and socks to crucial items like water backpacks, portable showers, and medical supplies, the organization worked tirelessly to meet the urgent needs of Israel’s defenders. Over the past 9 months, volunteers have been coming daily to package items, ensuring each unit gets exactly what they need.
But what sets Yashar LaChayal apart from the many other initiatives that emerged in the wake of October 7?
The answer lies in their long-standing relationships and deep understanding of the IDF’s needs.
“What makes Yashar LaChayal unique is our direct contact with army personnel,” Blankrot explains. “Thanks to our close communications, we can identify the immediate needs of soldiers on the front lines and ensure that their needs are taken care of so they can solely focus on their service.”
This direct line of communication means that Yashar LaChayal can respond quickly and effectively to changing needs on the ground.
For the Jewish community in the NY/NJ area, supporting Yashar LaChayal offers a way to directly impact the lives of IDF soldiers. It’s a connection to Israel that goes beyond words of support or political activism. Every donation translates into tangible items that make a soldier’s life easier, safer, and more comfortable.
Over the years, Yashar LaChayal has expanded its mission beyond just supplying gear. They’ve launched initiatives to support soldiers from low-income families, helping with rent, appliances, and other necessities that their families can’t afford. They’ve also created programs to help injured soldiers and support bereaved families.
One of their most impactful projects is the “Warm Corner” initiative. These 39 rest stops, located near Israeli towns, provide a place for local security forces on patrol to take a well-deserved break. They offer comfortable seating and phone charging stations. Volunteers from local towns keep them stocked with hot soup in winter and cold drinks in summer, creating a symbiotic relationship between soldiers and the communities they protect. Additionally, the Warm Corners are used as command centers when operations are going on in the area.
For American Jews feeling helpless in the face of Israel’s struggles, supporting Yashar LaChayal offers a concrete way to make a difference. Every pair of socks, every tube of toothpaste, every water backpack is a message to Israel’s soldiers: We see you. We appreciate you. We’re with you.
As we approach nearly two decades of Yashar LaChayal’s tireless work, it’s clear that their mission is more crucial than ever.
While we all hope for peace, the reality is that Israel’s soldiers will continue to need support. And Yashar LaChayal will be there, as they have been for 18 years, ensuring that those who stand on the front lines of Israel’s defense have what they need to stand strong.
To learn more about Yashar LaChayal’s vital work or to contribute to their efforts, visit their website. Every donation, large or small, helps ensure that Israel’s defenders have the support they need to keep Israel – and the Jewish people – safe.
