Last Tuesday evening, an emotional ceremony was held at United Hatzalah’s national headquarters in Jerusalem, marking the completion of the training course and launch of the organization’s Psychotrauma Canine Unit. This specialized unit operates on a fully voluntary basis 24/7, providing initial psychotrauma support at disaster scenes and emergency situations through emotional support dogs. This service delivers essential support to people who need it during their most difficult moments. United Hatzalah’s psychotrauma dogs play a significant role in reducing anxiety and stress among victims, as they provide a sense of calm and tranquility to patients, thereby contributing to accelerated recovery. In this prestigious year-long program—the first of its kind in Israel—ten special dogs participated alongside their owners, practicing various emergency scenarios such as exposure to crowded places, professional functioning at mass casualty incidents, assisting wounded individuals inside ambulances, and more. Professor Ehud Davidson, CEO of United Hatzalah: “We are proud to be pioneers in deploying psychotrauma dogs at disaster scenes and emergency situations, and we are confident that this model will be replicated and studied worldwide. United Hatzalah’s psychotrauma dogs are an integral part of our aid system at disaster scenes. Their ability to provide immediate psychological support to the injured and affected, and to reduce anxiety in critical situations, is an important component in our success in alleviating suffering and facilitating more professional and rapid recovery.” Eli Pollak, Deputy CEO of United Hatzalah: “The moving launch of the Psychotrauma Canine Unit represents another step in enhancing our ability to offer customized and immediate psychological assistance at disaster scenes. These dogs, together with their skilled handlers—who are both trauma social work experts and psychotrauma dog handlers in disaster zones—bring exceptional sensitivity and provide emotional support, a sense of security, and hope for victims in the most difficult situations. We are proud to be the first in this field in Israel and will do everything to professionalize, develop, and expand this important unit.”
Is there a pain greater than the pain of watching your little daughter bravely fighting for her life, but losing despite all efforts? There is! Knowing that if only they had the means, they could fly her to a children’s hospital in the USA, where ground-breaking treatments are available and could cure Riki. But they do not have the funds. Imagine this young family: mom and dad, hardworking and loving parents to Riki and Moishi, just celebrating the birth of baby Moti. Their world collapsing one cruel day when they discover to their horror that Riki, a happy, sweet tempered and creative seven-year-old, has Leukemia. They spend days in the hospital, then weeks. Leaving all behind and focusing on supporting their little girl, seeking treatment and hoping for good news. But weeks turn to months, and Riki is only getting worse. Moishi and baby Motti miss them terribly, their jobs are gone, their strength is weakening, and Riki is bravely trying to fight but she knows that her chances are slim. Then they hear of a possible cure, far away in the USA. With rekindled hope they contact the hospital and find that Riki is a perfect candidate for this treatment. They want to celebrate, to start planning a complicated voyage and stay, but the sums needed are way beyond their waning budget. Can you imagine the agony? Little Riki is praying for a miracle With her childish optimism she knows that her devoted parents will find a way. The way is us Together, we can be that miracle! We can give Riki and her parents the most precious gift of all: a cure, a life. Donate now
After nearly three years of legal proceedings, justice has been served in the tragic death of R’ Feivy Mandel z”l, a 32-year-old Lakewood father. Alejandro Huerta-Arias, 24, of Toms River, was found guilty of Vehicular Homicide on Tuesday, convicted for his reckless actions that led to the fatal March 9, 2022, crash in Lakewood. Read the full story on Lakewood Alerts.
The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) announced that it will stop selling and refilling MetroCards by the end of 2025, accelerating the transition to its OMNY tap-and-go payment system. The move, confirmed by MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber in an interview with Crain’s New York Business on Wednesday, could have major implications for Orthodox Jews and other New Yorkers who rely on MetroCards—particularly those who do not use smartphones. MetroCards, which have been in use since 1994, were originally slated for retirement in 2027. However, the MTA has now moved up its timeline, eliminating MetroCard sales much sooner than expected. While commuters with remaining balances will be able to use their MetroCards until 2027, the inability to purchase or refill them after 2024 could create significant hardships for those who cannot or do not use digital payment systems. The OMNY system, introduced in 2019, allows riders to pay by tapping their phones, credit cards, or OMNY tap cards at turnstiles. However, purchasing and managing OMNY cards requires internet access and an online account, creating a barrier for Orthodox Jews who do not carry smartphones or use digital financial services. For many in the Orthodox Jewish community, particularly in neighborhoods like Borough Park, Williamsburg, and Crown Heights, MetroCards have been an essential way to navigate the city. The shift toward an almost entirely digital system raises concerns about accessibility. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)
The Chidon Event There is a reason why the Chidon Event is watched by over 100,000 people each year. This grand celebration of learning is truly electrifying! From the glamorous stage and bright lights to the rapid-fire Q&A and enthusiastic buzz of the live audience, this energy-packed event is one to remember. Watch as representatives from over 300 schools around the globe are honored during the Grand Awards Ceremony on stage; enjoy a live concert with some of the biggest names in Jewish music; and be wowed as contestants showcase their knowledge of all 613 Mitzvos in the fun and exhilarating Game Show. Yet, Chidon is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant community celebration, highlighting five years of incredible dedication and beautiful limmud Torah. This past year alone, over 7,000 children participated in the Chidon by dedicating their spare time to mastering Hashem’s 613 mitzvos. Children took on the challenge to learn about each mitzvah, diving deep into the details and preparing themselves for the complete Geulah, when we will once again observe all 613 mitzvos. Children who have learned the complete set of the Sarah Rohr Yahadus Curriculum and pass the final test are called up to the stage to receive the prestigious Kol HaTorah Kula plaque, in recognition of this phenomenal milestone. Also announced on stage are the certificates, plaques, and medals—including the prestigious bronze, silver, and gold trophies—marking the hard work and achievements of children all over the world. Mark your calendars and spread the word for this year’s grand Siyum HaMitzvos, taking place b’ezras Hashem on Chof Adar / March 20 (girls) and Chof-Zayin Adar / March 27 (boys). Whether you’ll be participating on stage, watching live at school, or cheering from home, we look forward to welcoming you, your family, and friends to salute their achievements. Prepare for a day of learning, celebration, and community spirit! We can’t wait to celebrate with you! CLICK HERE!
BREAKING – Tanks advancing in Netzarim Corridor toward Salah al-Din Road: The IDF has launched “pinpoint” ground operations in central and southern Gaza, with the 252nd Division capturing half of the Netzarim Corridor up to the Salah a-Din road to expand its buffer zone, while the Golani Brigade has been deployed to the southern Gaza border to prepare for future actions in the Strip.
Israel’s Defense Minister delivers a final warning to residents of Gaza: “The first Sinwar destroyed Gaza; the second (Mohammad Sinwar) will wipe it out completely. Israeli Air Force strikes were just the beginning. If the hostages aren’t freed and Hamas isn’t eliminated, Israel will unleash force beyond anything you’ve seen. Evacuations will resume. The only alternative is total annihilation.”
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz on Trump’s call with Putin yesterday: “It lasted a very long time and both Presidents covered a lot of ground.. future of bilateral relationships, stabilization, to ending this war… stopping the killing.”
National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett: “I think a lot of people are feeling a lot better about their groceries given the policies that we’ve pursued in the last couple of months.”
