GIFT Inspires Giving to Israel

330 volunteers of all ages signed up to sort and pack boxes of vital supplies, in both the London and Manchester GIFT Hubs, made up of items brought in across over 1,200 drop-offs across the UK. GIFT is  this week sending over 100 boxes, packed to the brim, by airplane to Israel.

Beverley Sanford, who came with her husband to GIFT’s London Hub to pack essential items, noted: ‘It was the first time I smiled since the weekend. We all worked together, young and old. I was working with a young child packing bags. We came together as a community for our brothers and sisters in Israel. The power, energy and love in the room actually moved us to tears. It was an incredible experience. Thank you GIFT for giving us this opportunity.’

In addition, GIFT has raised £60,000 in philanthropic donations, which will be used by GIFT’s staff on the ground in Israel to purchase vital supplies for those most affected by recent events.

Michelle Barnett MBE, GIFT’s Founding Director, said: ‘The phones at GIFT have been ringing off the hook since last Monday morning with people wanting to help in any way they can. It’s easy to feel powerless and hopeless when we live so far from family and friends in Israel. GIFT has been proud to give those wanting to make a difference the chance to do just this. We are so grateful for the hundreds and hundreds of people who donated sleeping bags, thermals, hats, gloves, toiletries, batteries and so much more, and of course to those who have donated funds for distribution by our Israeli colleagues.’

As the ‘go-to charity’ to make things happen, GIFT has been inundated by requests from individuals and organisations to contribute to future collections. The GIFT team is urgently investigating logistics for its next appeal for supplies. To donate to GIFT’s Israel Appeal, please visit jgift.org/donate/GIFT4Israel.