MERCAZ Newsletter — Yom HaAtzmaut 2008

Masorti's Campaign For Ashkelon & Sderot

Because of the expanded rocket attacks from Gaza against Sderot, Ashkelon and nearby areas, the entire Conservative Movement is getting behind a new emergency fundraising appeal being coordinated by the Masorti Foundation.

In Ashkelon, where the Masorti Movement has long had a large and active kehilla (community) with a kindergarten program involving about 200 children, the immediate need is to reinforce parts of the synagogue building, including putting shatter-proof glass on some large windows.

In Sderot, where the Masorti Movement has already arranged more than two-dozen day trips to take residents on excursions to Jerusalem, Tel-Aviv or other locations, more such trips are planned. In addition, Masorti's "MAROM" program for young adults, which has sponsored several lectures and films in Sderot, is expanding its program activities there.

All contributions for help for Ashkelon and Sderot may be sent to the Masorti Foundation, Suite 832, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10015, with a check payable to Masorti Foundation or paid online at www.masorti.org. Checks or online donations should be accompanied by notes that the funds are designated for the emergency appeal.