“I didn’t know where to turn. I had no family here, no connections, and I was running out of options.” Olga is one of thousands of new Jewish immigrants (Olim) who come to Voice of Judah Israel monthly, desperate for someone to see them. Weeks after our initial encounter with her, she moved to an apartment far better than she could have ever imagined. Tears welled up in her eyes as she said, “Every day I thank God for what He did through you.”
What our ministry did wasn’t just us – it was you, too.
Your partnership with VOJI has this kind of impact on Israelis every day. It often begins with something small – a bag of groceries, a warm coat or even just someone willing to listen. VOJI has had a front-row seat to how these simple moments can grow into something life changing. The more resources we have from you, the more we have to give, the more lives that are touched in the Holy Land. We are doing this together.
Returning the Favor
Olga is a recipient turned volunteer for our ministry. She was on the receiving end when she came to Israel with nowhere to turn. Now she is returning the favor to help others in need. We recently organized a special day for Olga and other faithful volunteers for our ministry. Viktor was one of them. When he first arrived in Israel, he was struggling to find work which deeply discouraged him. One of our team members offered to pray for him.
“I had never prayed like that before,” Viktor admitted. “At first, I didn’t know what to say, but by the end, I found myself saying, ‘Amen.’” Today, Viktor not only has steady work, but also serves our ministry every week by packing food for struggling families.
Then there’s Marina, who remembers walking into our aid center for the first time, simply looking for clothes for her children. “You didn’t just give me clothes,” she said. “you gave me dignity.” Today, Marina helps sort and prepare clothing donations for others in need.
Serving Those Who Serve
On this recent Shabbat, our ministry team reversed the roles and served the volunteers who give so much of themselves after receiving so much from our important work in Israel. A beautiful table and hearty meal were prepared. Our team and volunteers shared stories and prayed together, all while enjoying one another’s company. Our ministry saw first-hand how the Lord multiplies kindness. The people who once came broken now stand strong, giving their time and hearts to others. This is the heartbeat of our work – meeting needs, yes, but even more, creating a community where generosity is contagious.
Turning to Us – VOJI and You
Friends like you make this possible. Every food package, every coat and every shared meal is a seed planted. These seeds grow into stories like Olga’s, Viktor’s and Marina’s. They have restored hope because of our ministry and ultimately, your support. The impact didn’t end with us helping them. It now continues out from them to touch others in need.
Thank you for being part of this ripple effect of kindness in the Land of Israel. Together, we are building something that lasts.