OU ESTABLISHES EMERGENCY FOREST FIRE CAMPAIGN AS BLAZE DESTROYS MUCH OF NORTHERN ISRAEL AND TAKES MANY LIVES
The Orthodox Union Thursday announced an Emergency Forest Fire Campaign with 100 percent of the donations to be sent to organizations providing rescue, relief, emergency services and support in Israel. The OU is monitoring the situation around the clock from its Seymour J. Abrams Orthodox Union Jerusalem World Center.
In a message which is being sent to all OU synagogues prior to Shabbat, OU President Stephen J. Savitsky and Executive Vice President Rabbi Steven Weil declared:
“The worst fire in Israel’s history is raging across Haifa and the Carmel Forest. Lives have already been lost, and many more are in danger as Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services battle the blaze.
“As all forests in Israel are urban forests and are near either large cities or small villages, lives, homes, and livelihood are always at risk. Hundreds of residents are being evacuated as thousands of dunams of forest have been consumed by the flames. Rescue teams and equipment are being brought in from all over the country. Shimon Romach, Israel’s Fire Commissioner, is calling on the international community for support during this disaster.
“The OU is encouraging members of our community to once again tap into our deepest wellsprings of prayer and generosity. 100% of the donations collected by the OU will be distributed to organizations providing rescue, relief, emergency services, and support.”
The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.