An opportunity born from hatred yet sustained by heroism summarizes the kickstart and epic growth of the unique chesed initiative, Boots for Israel. In a string of random occurrences reminiscent of those of the approaching Purim holiday, Hamas’ surprise ambush on October 7, 2023, and fateful Jewish geography-like connections led to the phone call between BFI Founder Yakir Wachstock and IDF General Daniel Jacob. This became the first step of an impactful movement that shows no sign of slowing down as orders continue to flow in daily from IDF soldiers for BFI’s much-needed tactical boots.
As BFI’s popularity has been hiking up, Jewish communities, synagogues, centers, organizations, and even matchmakers have leapt into action by helping organize a variety of events, facilitating the involvement of hundreds of volunteers of all ages for memorable programs energized by purpose to aid our soldiers.
On Wednesday, March 13, Boots for Israel volunteers gathered at YINR to pair with its Ruach day program for a special boot-packing event. Participants of Ruach, a weekly program generously funded by the Young Israel and energetically helmed by Anya Wiebke, and BFI volunteers hosted numerous eighth-graders from Westchester Torah Academy for a spirited afternoon of chesed, socializing, and snacks.
The overall scene portrayed a special achdus of generations and communities. As chesed comes in different “sizes” (like boots), it was inspirational to witness the collaboration creating something even greater. Although the boots’ trip ends in Israel, there’s no limit to the gratitude, goodwill, and hope that such events generate, step by step. As the holidays of Purim and Pesach approach, also involving uncertain times and stomping out seemingly impossible challenges, we should take a step back to appreciate the miraculous proliferation of such chesed initiatives like BFI ba’zman ha’zeh (in our days).
The event opened with remarks by cherished Young Israel of Holliswood Chairman of the Board and BFI founder, Yakir Wachstock, recounting the miraculous speed and efficiency with which he and daily devoted volunteers are able to help fill the IDF’s glaring need. Since that first phone call, BFI has leapt into action and hasn’t stopped. We should appreciate what can be accomplished if we notice and seize opportunities, Wachstock conveyed to the enraptured crowd.
We rarely know why things happen, not unlike Purim’s string of random-seeming occurrences. However, more important is the ‘what’; namely, what we as a nation, country, state, community, and individuals do with the opportunities presented to us. If anything, BFI’s story will serve as an example of how one small step can lead to a movement.
Each Boots for Israel event seems to add something new to the process, and this was no different: Volunteers’ hand-written notes of encouragement have become quite popular among the IDF soldiers! For good measure, granola bars and Gatorade accompanied the messages.
Following the speech, Wachstock introduced a promotional video by Yeeshai Gross depicting segments of soldier interviews and life as they are currently living it. A particularly poignant image was a close-up of a pair of boots held together by duct tape. Seeing the soldiers toil in their new reality infused the packing that followed with a palpable feeling of tikkun olam being performed in real-time.
Though the story of Purim is already chronicled in Megillas Esther, Boots for Israel’s story continues to be written. Numerous synagogues, schools, communities, companies, and nonprofits seize the opportunity to pair with BFI for special boot-packing events. Thus far, over $2 million has been donated, thanks to BFI’s completely volunteer-driven work. However, we rely upon the generosity of klal Yisrael to sustain the ongoing journey of Boots for Israel.
By Jeremy Uliss
As Purim and Pesach approach and we recount the challenges and victories of ages past, may we channel our spiritual vibrance by helping face the challenges in our days.
For more information on volunteering opportunities, donating, or to host your own packing event, please visit https://www.bootsforisrael.com.
