Shalom friends,

My name is Gidon Ariel, I am the director of Root Source, and I'm happy to be your personal connection in Israel.

Since the beginning of the Hamas War on Simchat Torah, October 7, many people have shared their hearts and strong desire to help.

Between my close connections in Israel and my capability to accept and distribute humanitarian charitable donations in Israel through Root Source, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, I am uniquely positioned to run a humanitarian needs campaign for the current war in Israel that was thrust upon us.

100% of the money raised in this campaign (after fees) will be used espressly for these causes:

Security needs for village emergency response team: My village, Maale Hever, near Hebron in Judea, has augmented its security team (kitat konenut) from ten men on call to over thirty soldiers and volunteers full time. The major threat is nearby Hamas terrorists attacking our town, as they did on October 7th. To further equip the team, we are raising funds to acquire three guard posts, perimeter cameras, and an emergency generator. Security needs: $30,000

Bulletproof vest for combat engineer soldier: While all Israeli soldiers are provided offensive and defensive gear, some soldiers feel a need to add to that basic kitbag. This bulletproof vest, available in Israel, is considered a better fit for potential battle readiness. Vest: $1500

Spirit-raising support for wives and children in a small community where most of the husbands are mobilized: My daughter Shira Rina lives in a small youth village, catering to the special educational and emotional needs of youth at risk teenagers who, for various reasons, are estranged from their families. About a dozen young families live there, all working for the school, but virtually all of the men have been mobilized to the IDF since the war started. This leaves the wives to carry a double and triple load, which they are doing valiantly. Shira Rina wants to prepare an unforgettable women's night for these heroic ladies and give toys and games as presents to the close to fifty young children who are missing their dads. Support for soldiers' families: $3500

Goal breakdown:

Security needs: $30,000
Vest: $1500
Support for soldiers' families: $3500

Total: $35,000

PS If you are celebrating Thanksgiving Day, maybe this is a good way to thank God for your good fortune, and get a tremendous thanks from me and the people who you are helping here!

Thanks and God Bless,
Gidon Ariel