From the beginning, The Associated’s overseas partners, who were already on the ground, thanks in part to the Annual Campaign’s support, deployed emergency services to Israelis facing trauma, property destruction and loss of life. The Associated also reached out to its friends in Ashkelon, a city that remains under continuous rocket attack, to assess needs. 

Baltimore’s connection to Ashkelon goes back more than two decades, when The Associated first established the Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership. Over the past 21 years, the two communities have built connections, developed long-lasting friendships and strengthened Baltimore’s ties to Israel.

“Baltimore’s partnership with Ashkelon is more meaningful than ever. Supporting our sisters and brothers in their time of need is an integral part of the Associated’s mission and resonates for our family on a personal level. In good times and during challenges we are there for our partner city in Israel. As we enter the New Year let us hope for better times locally and abroad,” says Atara Frankel, co-chair, The Associated’s Israel and Global Initiatives.

Here is how The Associated has helped:

Humanitarian Assistance

And we supported the Emergency Volunteer Project, bringing rehabilitation therapists and emergency personnel during this time of crisis.

Trauma and Mental Health

The events of the past year have left many Israelis experiencing trauma, and studies indicate more than half a million could experience severe mental health challenges in the future.

That’s why The Associated invested significantly in addressing mental health through programs like the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC), which operates 12 resilience centers, including one in Ashkelon.
ITC provides mental health services and trains caregiver and responder emergency teams. 

The Associated also provided funds to the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon to enhance trauma care. Since the war began, Barzilai has treated thousands of soldiers and victims of the war.

Economic Assistance

In the weeks and months after October 7, many residents fled Ashkelon. As a result, small businesses suffered severe economic losses. Through the Small Business Loan Initiative, The Associated and its partner, the Jewish Agency for Israel, are offering loans to small businesses to help sustain them and ensure economic stability in the area.

Learn more at associated.org.

Join us for An Evening of Remembrance, Unity and Hope to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the attacks on Israel. 

October 7, 7:00 p.m. 
Beth El Congregation

Register at associated.org/october7