Israel-Gaza War Fundraiser for Disability Families

When the Gaza war began, Chimes Israel rushed to provide emergency relief for families of children with disabilities in Ashkelon. We delivered food vouchers, medications, and therapy equipment directly into homes, and supported parents through weekly visits and remote learning. Thanks to hundreds of supporters, our children and families made it through months of lockdown and danger.

But the war also exposed the unsafe and unsuitable conditions of our current centers. For years, children in Ashkelon—just six miles from Gaza—have received therapy and education in four makeshift residential houses. These cramped buildings lack accessibility and, critically, do not have adequate bomb shelters. In an emergency, children and staff have just 30 seconds to reach safety. They usually don't make it ontime. Not all fit into the shelters. 

A Faster Path Forward

Originally, our long-term plan was to build a brand-new fortified center on land granted by the municipality. While exciting, this option would take up to six years before opening its doors—far too long for children in their critical early years of development.

Now we have a better solution. We have identified a large building in Ashkelon that can be renovated, fortified, and transformed into a modern early childhood rehabilitation center within just one year. The quality of the center will be everything the children deserve—spacious classrooms, therapy rooms, large safe shelters, and outdoor play areas. The only thing we are cutting corners on is time.

Every Donation Matters Now More Than Ever Before

Early intervention is everything. Ages six months to three years are the most critical for brain development. Every month without therapy is a lost chance for a child to walk, talk, or learn to communicate. That is why we must act quickly.

We have already secured substantial commitments from government partners and private donors, but we still need to raise $1 million to finish the project. With your help, the children can move into their new, safe center by next year—not in six years.

Every donation—large or small—brings us closer to opening the doors. When you give, you are not just building walls and classrooms; you are giving a child with disabilities safety, therapy, and the chance to thrive.

Join Us

In these difficult times, when so much feels out of our control, this is one place where we can make a difference—together. Thank you for being part of our global family, and for giving Ashkelon’s most vulnerable children the start in life they deserve.