There are many ways Americans can support Israel, our ally, and the only democracy in the Middle East. Below please find a list of suggestions. We welcome other ideas from you foe future editions. Please send them to Joseph Varon at: jvaron613@aol.com.

I. POVERTY SPREADS IN ISRAEL-Nearly one in five Israeli is poor according to a government report The National Insurance Institute reported that 19.3 percent of Israeli lived under the poverty line, earning less than $400 per month. Jerusalem continued to be the poorest city, with one-third of the city's households living below the poverty line. There are many extraordinary organizations working to assist those in need. Consider doing a fund-raiser for one of these vital, crucial organizations listed below. Hold a bake sale, make a quilt (and sell the squares) , host a cocktail party or dinner party, put together a bowl-a-thon, softball game or other sporting event or invite people you know to a movie screening.
The following organizations provide daily aid to thousands of Israel's needy without compromising their dignity
           1. The Jerusalem Open House, US Office, 1276 46 Street, Suite 203, Brooklyn, NY 11219
            2. Yad Eliezer, American Friends of Yad Eliezer, 1102 East 26 Street, Brooklyn, NY 11210
            3.  Hazon Yeshaya, 2001 East 7 Street, Brooklyn, NY 11223                   
            4. Meir Panim Soup Kitchens in Israel, US Office, 5314 New Utrecht Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219
***Our Executive Director Gail Eisenberg has visited The Jerusalem Open House and was extremely impressed with their work.

II. COME TO THE SALUTE TO ISRAEL PARADE - Mark your calendars!  This year's parade will take place on Sunday, June 5th, 2005. As our council did last year, we have formed a committee to plan our participation in the parade. Buses will be leaving from many synagogues in the council. Your synagogue and / or organization is welcome to join with us. Come march or cheer on those who are marching. Show the world we continue our unwavering support for Israel! Our next planning meeting will take place at Marathon Jewish Center on Wednesday, March 30th at 7:45 p.m. For participation information, contact Rabbi Greene at Marathon Jewish Center at 718-428-1580.

Go the previous Support Israel Bulletin