Melanie Einbund
A long time ago I collected my dimes to buy a tree in Israel through the Jewish National Fund (JNF). It is a tradition I have kept throughout my life. I buy trees in Israel to commemorate special celebrations, a marriage, a birth. Also to express my sympathy for those I have lost. And other occasions where this special gesture is meaningful to me.
Recently I became reacquainted with Jewish National Fund. I learned, like me, JNF has changed and grown since I was 7 years old.
Jewish Women in Action, hosted by Gail Cowan, invited several Jewish organizations in the area to attend a meeting about JNF at SaddleBrooke Ranch. Talk about energy! Deb Rochford of JNF spoke to JNF’s purpose, mission, history, work, charity to other organizations, and most importantly the situation in Israel. Many of us in our community have friends and family in Israel. We are concerned, and the evening news doesn’t help very much to quell our fears and concerns.
Deb spoke of ‘Missions to Israel.’ This is a 4–day mission to work in Israel by picking fruit, transporting items or people, or lending a helping hand wherever needed. JNF will make certain your transportation, housing, and needs are met. Of course, I went home to pack my suitcase and extend my 4–day tour to have time to see my family.
Some information is important at this point. Deb has been back and forth to Israel several times this past year. She spoke of what life is like for Israelis, their daily activities, and their wishes to rebuild and save their country from the heinous crimes committed on Oct. 7, 2023. Deb said that the pictures of the hostages are everywhere and everyone is committed to their homecoming and safety. Families of hostages can be met at Jerusalem Square. They want to be acknowledged and share their stories, fear, and commitment to bring the hostages home.
Deb is located in Scottsdale. She manages a team of professionals throughout the United States. She travels throughout the country to meet with supporters and provide updates to people like me. Deb spoke about what she has seen on her recent visits to Israel. She guides visits for American Jews to Israel.
A mission of JNF is to work throughout Israel to help heal and rebuild the country and people’s lives since Oct. 7, 2023. But, JNF has been very effective and proactive before Oct. 7. JNF has been involved in building the country and now is concentrating rebuilding efforts in Israel’s North and South. Eighty percent of the population from the North remains displaced. They cannot go home because of the bombing.
Bomb shelters are major as the shelling was rampant before Oct. 7 and continues today. Trauma centers, employment hubs, and medical centers, including quality of life projects and critical infrastructure development, is continuing today. It is paramount to address the physical and psychological needs of Israelis.
That being said, I will continue to buy my trees and then some!