“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.”
Proverbs 19:17
For many Israelis, the current international public opinion climate feels isolating and hostile. The biased news media readily portrays the animosity of a few to represent the views of all. It seems the whole world is against them and they are living on an isolated island surrounded by hate. What a beautiful time for the love of the Lord to shine through the kindness and support of people like you!
Meet Anya, a strong, soft-spoken mother of four sons living here in Israel. Two of her boys, Alex and Sergey, are already serving in the army. Denis is heading into second grade and her youngest, Daniel, is starting first grade this fall.
As she sat with us, Anya smiled the kind of smile worn by many Israeli parents — full of love but carrying quiet worry. She’s a mother who knows how to make a little go a long way. But the back-to-school season brings a financial pressure she can’t just stretch away.
The Hidden Strain Behind the Smile
Last year, Anya had a lot on her plate, more than she could handle. Her one son was in his last year of high school, another was starting first grade, and a little one still in kindergarten. Between registration fees, books, clothing, and supplies, she was overwhelmed by the cost. That’s when help arrived — through you and your generosity.
Because of kindhearted people like you that sowed into our Back-to-School Project, Anya’s kids received brand-new backpacks, complete school supply sets, and a gift card for school shirts and essentials. It gave her space to breathe and gave her kids so much more than just notebooks and pencils.
“It meant so much to my little Denis,” she said, tearing up, “it was his very first new backpack — not one passed down from his older brothers. He was so proud.”
Her teenage son, Alex, even received one “cool enough” that he actually wanted to wear it in school. A small detail, but in a teen’s world — that means a lot!
Why It Matters
When you give a child a backpack filled with the school supplies that they need, you’re not just helping them show up to school — you’re giving dignity, confidence, and a message that says: you are not forgotten. You are also lifting the burden off a hardworking parent, like Anya, who’s doing everything she can but sometimes just needs a little help.
Let’s Do It Again — Together
This year, our Back-to-School project is growing. We have over 500 children from families across Israel, single parents, new immigrants, and families under financial pressure who are facing impossible choices. Will you help us bless them?
Your gift of 290 Israeli shekels ($85 USD) will provide:
- A sturdy, age-appropriate backpack
- A full set of school supplies and book vouchers
- A gift card for clothing, shoes, jackets or other basic but much-needed items
- Most of all, it will provide hope and dignity for both the children and their parents.
You Can Be the Difference for Children Like Anya’s
Let’s make sure no child starts school empty-handed this year. Remind these families that someone sees them, someone cares, and someone is standing with them — in Jesus’ name.
Partner with VOJI to bless Israeli families in need. Your gifts may be the reason a child walks into the new school year with joy and confidence. We cannot understate the gratitude and overwhelming joy it brings to these parents to their children will be able to start school, equip with the tools to ensure their success. You are true representation of God’s love in action.
“Thank you so much,” Anya said quietly, “It may seem small to you, but to us — it’s everything.”