Camp Ben Frankel has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to try to bring up to 17 Israeli children affected by the events of Oct. 7th to the camp this summer. The Jewish sleepover camp is located in Makanda, Ill., about two hours south of St. Louis.

The goal is to raise more than $110,000 to help these children, ages 10-17, attend camp. Aaron Hadley, director of Camp Ben Frankel said the camp can accommodate one child for every $6,520 raised between now and May 28th.

Hadley explained in a letter to the Jewish Light that in late April, he was contacted by an Israeli mom desperate to find a way for her daughters to escape the daily terrors of living on the Lebanon border. She could only afford the cost of airfare to get her girls to an American Jewish camp.

“We thought there must be an existing program or funding available for Israeli families like hers. After investigating and asking around, we were surprised to find nothing,” said Hadley in the letter.

“We also asked around to see if there were other families like hers that were in need of a respite this summer. Through our camp’s alumni network in Israel, we heard from many more families desperate to help their children this summer. That’s when we decided to try to do something to help.”

Hadley said the camp wants to help these girls and other kids like them — children displaced from their homes after Oct. 7th or living on the border with Lebanon.

“They face the threat of rocket attacks. Their parents have been called into active duty or volunteer on their kibbutz emergency response crews,” Hadley wrote. “They are living with war. Their parents just want them to have a fun and safe summer.

“Imagine the impact of a summer filled with games, crafts and outdoor activities for a child who has spent every day since Oct. 7th living with fear and uncertainty. Your donation will not only provide them with moments of joy but also contribute to their emotional well-being and resilience.”

How you can help

• Donate: Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Whether it’s a one-time donation or a monthly gift, your support will directly impact the lives of these children.
• Spread the Word: Share our campaign, and together, let’s make a lasting difference in their lives.

Donate now

Visit the campaign website to learn more and make a donation: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/jewish-federation-of-southern-illinois/safe-summer-respite-for-israeli-kids-at-camp-ben-frankel

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