Via Anash.org
In the wake of massive flooding across Eastern Kentucky, Chabad of Kentucky partnered with the Israeli Consulate in Atlanta, led by Consul General Anat Sultan Dadon, to provide immediate aid to those affected in Eastern Kentucky.
A Project Friendship convoy with over $100,000 of brand new mattresses and sorely needed cleaning supplies and basic apparel arrived on Monday to sites in the towns of Whitesburg, KY, and Hazard, KY, which are the main distribution sites for the region.
The Project Friendship representatives witnessed the devastation with Congressman Hal Rogers and shared inspiration and encouragement with all they met. “We are here for you,” Rabbi Shlomo Litvin told those affected. “Just tell us what you need and we will help find it and get it to you”.
Working with partners on the ground, including Rep. Angie Hatton, Mercy Chefs, and Rep. Chris Fugate, as well as Governor Andy Beshears’s office and the National Guard, Chabad was able to quickly get these much-needed supplies to the people most affected by the disaster. More shipments will fill further needs later this week.
Anat Sultan Dadon, Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States shared words of compassion and encouragement. “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the flooding disaster in Kentucky. We send our sincere condolences to those who have tragically lost loved ones and wishes for a speedy recovery to all who have been impacted. At this difficult time, Israel stands with the people of Kentucky, and our Consulate is grateful to be able to join in an effort of offering some assistance to those in need.”
Earlier, President Joe Biden responded to Governor Andy Beshears’s request by designating the area a Disaster Emergency, launching federal funds to help the beleaguered region. At least 35 people have lost their lives in the storms.
The Rabbis began planning the charity cargo when word of the flooding emerged. “The Rebbe always focused, not just on humanity as a whole, but on each individual person,” said Rabbi Avrohom Litvin, Director of Chabad of Kentucky. “It is our responsibility to reach out to each and every person with love. Only then can our community heal.”
The Chabad of Kentucky Project Friendship Convoy is on its way to Eastern Kentucky, with necessities for people on the ground!
Proud to be in the lead vehicle with my father!
Thank you to our partners at @IsraelAtlanta!
Join us in this important mitzvah https://t.co/3jy02SVl2s pic.twitter.com/bhmx2GuoHi
— Rabbi S Litvin (@BluegrassRabbi) August 1, 2022
The Commander of the @USNationalGuard serving the area gave Chabad a rundown of the damage, of where relief was was most needed.
Having worked together in Western Kentucky, we are glad to have their expertise.
Thank you for your service.
Join us at https://t.co/3jy02SVl2s pic.twitter.com/Ke6CKgYGam
— Rabbi S Litvin (@BluegrassRabbi) August 1, 2022
No matter where I went in the area, I was inspired by the tremendous strength and faith of my fellow Kentuckians.
My new friend Ashley is from Hazard, and lost everything in the storm. Yet somehow her faith, and even her smile endured. Truly uplifting.https://t.co/3jy02SVl2s pic.twitter.com/bXuKXAoF00
— Rabbi S Litvin (@BluegrassRabbi) August 2, 2022
Amazing work!