Deerfield Resident Raises Thousands To Help Relocate Israelis

DEERFIELD, IL — Meredith Kirshenbaum had never started a GoFundMe campaign, but what's going on in Israel prompted the Deerfield resident to do so. Kirshenbaum has cousins currently living on Kibbuts Givat Chaim, located near the center of Israel near Hadera.

"Last week, they [my family] reached out telling us about the work they are doing to help Israelis who've had to relocate from the South or North of Israel, and asking for donations," Kirshenbaum told Patch.

Kirshenbaum is specifically working with her cousin, Shai, who is helping 150 vacated residents from Southern and Northern Israel. According to Kirshenbaum, Shai was raised on the kibbutz and still lives there with his family and extended family.

"He has been very involved in coordinating the support provided to families who the kibbutz has taken in during this difficult time," Kirshenbaum said. "As I understand it, the whole kibbutz has come together to help others during this time. It is really inspirational — and shows the beauty in everyday people, even during these dark and trying times."

Kirshenbaum started the GoFundMe campaign last week with a goal of raising $10,000. As of Monday morning, it has reached that goal.

"It is amazing [reaching the goal. The support we've received has been unbelievable — colleagues and friends who do not know our family donating hundreds of dollars," Kirshenbaum said.

She said the money raised will provide about six days of support for those who have evacuated their homes. Kirshenbaum is now hoping to raise the bar even higher in an attempt to provide financial support for 15 days or possibly a month. She is appreciative of all that have contributed, especially residents of Deerfield and the North Shore.

"My sense is that people are looking for ways to directly support those who are victims of senseless hate and violence. Helping support Kibbutz Givat Chaim is exactly that — we are giving directly to support those who've been victims of terror," Kirshenbaum said. "The impact of that support will hopefully be integral to helping these Israelis get back to some sense of normalcy."

To learn more about the GoFundMe campaign and make a donation, visit here.