Support and Resources for Israel
In response to the terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, please find resources below to learn more and support Israel during this difficult time.
Let us cultivate strength in our own hearts and souls and offer it freely to one another, in the fervent hope and prayer that the One who makes peace in the high heavens will bring peace to us, to Israel, and to all the world.
Read a recent op-ed by Rabbi Wendi Geffen and Rabbi Shoshana Conover, published in the Chicago Tribune on December 10, 2023: “International women’s groups, leaders remained silent on Hamas’ violence for too long.”
Upcoming EVENTS
We are regularly providing programs and events that respond to the situation in Israel. See below for our latest programs and events.
Support During the War in Israel and Amidst Rising Antisemitism
Wednesdays | 12:00–1:00 pm CST | Zoom
A virtual drop-in group for those in the Jewish community who are seeking connection, support, and coping strategies during these difficult times.
For more information and to receive the Zoom link contact Bracha Jakofsky, MSW
BrachaJakofsky@JCFS.org | 847.745.5430
DONATE
Consider supporting The JUF Israel Emergency Fund, which directs critical funds directly to Israelis.
VOLUNTEER IN ISRAEL
The Jewish National Fund–USA is offering highly subsidized missions to volunteer in Israel for four days and four nights, taking place twice a month, December 2023 through March 2024. Visit their website to learn more and register.
PRAY
HERE is a list of different prayers and readings for your personal prayers.
Special prayers and blessings for the State of Israel and its civilians, soldiers, first responders, and hostages, recited at Kabbalat Shabbat services on October 13, 2023. To watch the rest of the Shabbat service, click here.
LEARN
Web Resources
Israel/Hamas War Resources from the Center for Israel Education
ADL Debunk: Myths and False Narratives About the Israel-Hamas War
Israel, Hamas, and International Law: What You Need to Know
The History of Israel/Palestine before 1948
General Resources about Israel and Israel's History from the Center for Israel Education
AJC Glossary to "Translate Hate"
Books
Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor, by Yossi Klein HaLevi
A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth, by Noa Tishby
The War of Return, by Einat Wilf
Impossible Takes Longer, by Daniel Gordis
The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: What Everyone Needs to Know, by Dov Waxman
Israel: A Concise History of A Nation Reborn, by Daniel Gordis
The Arc of a Covenant, by Walter Russel Read
The Land of Hope and Fear: Israel’s Batter for Its Inner Soul, by Isabel Kershner
Can We Talk About Israel: A Guide for the Curious, Confused, and Conflicted, by Daniel Sokatch
Reliable News Sources
RESPONDING TO silence or MORAL EQUIVOCATION
Responding Responsibly from ARZA
A Sample Letter to Send to College/University President and Administration
A Sample Statement for Organizations to Use
TALK TO YOUR KIDS
Empowering Students in the Aftermath of Hate
How to Talk to Your Kids about What's Happening in Israel
Guidance for Talking to Our Kids from a Trauma Psychologist
Talking to Kids About Israel in a Time of Crisis
RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS ON CAMPUS
Hillel's Campus Antisemitism Legal Line: File a Report
A Sample Letter to Send to College/University Administration
Identifying and Understanding Antisemitism
What It's Like To Be A Jewish Student at Columbia Today
Tough Questions Answered About Gaza from the AJC
To report an antisemitic incident:
Office of Civil Rights Electronic Complaint Form
Hillel's Portal to report antisemitic incidents
PUBLIC STATEMENTS BY INTERFAITH ORGANIZATIONS
American Christians Should Stand with Israel under Attack
