The Israel Chesed Center unifies local grassroots efforts that were launched on October 8, immediately following the end of Simchat Torah, as reactions to the attacks on Israel and in support of the needs of Chayalim (IDF Soldiers), Mefunim (displaced civilians), Kitot Konnenut (local security teams) and medical volunteers in Israel. The Israel Chesed Center has grown into the largest support organization in the US and offers the fastest and most efficient way to transport critical gear into Israel.

Founded by Moshe Bodner and Jeff Eisenberg, and with the day-to-day guidance of Rabbi Ya’akov Trump (Young Israel of Lawrence Cedarhurst) and Rabbi Zalman Wolowik (Chabad of the Five Towns) the primary goals of the Chesed Center are (a) delivering critical gear and supplies to chayalim and families in need in Israel, and (b) community engagement – ensuring that members of the local community and beyond remain informed of the needs, aware of opportunities to assist, and receive support for their own initiatives. We encourage everyone, from pre-schoolers to senior citizens, to become ambassadors for projects, and we try to offer every community member the opportunity to identify a need that they can fall in love with.

In Israel, we operate a warehouse in Mishmar Ha’shiva, and our “on the ground” team, led by Yissachar Halpern and Shiri Hadar, personally ensure that all donations are necessary and reach their intended recipients. Their diligence has enabled us to assist individual Chayalim in need of gear, as well as hundreds of IDF units and displaced civilians.

We are 100% operated by volunteers and 100% of funds raised go to support Israel. We hope that our “business” will no longer be needed soon but, in the meantime, we’re here to help our brothers & sisters however we can. Reach out if you’re interested to hear more about how you can help.