By Rachel Saperstein
September 11, 2005
It was inevitable. The need for cash would loom high in the needs of the people of Gush Katif left in limbo in hotels scattered around Jerusalem. The government of Israel has gone to the media with pronouncements that all Katif residents were expelled with a hefty check of 50,000 shekels ($11,000). This is a lie. The people left traumatized -- but without a check.
Removed from their homes, often in the middle of the night, people took what they could pack in suitcases as they were bundled onto waiting buses accompanied by a contingent of police and soldiers.
Upon arriving at our hotel I asked a friend to come to our rescue with money that could be used for immediate needs. As families soon ran out of cash, their needs became acute and, most were simply too embarrassed to ask for help. Many had large overdrafts and were in emotional crisis.
Thus began 'Operation Band-Aid' -- our attempt to fill the immediate needs of people without a home and dependent on the good will of others.
'Operation Band-Aid' is very simple. It provides a gift of cash discreetly to each and every head of household. No questions asked, no requests, commitments, discussions or meetings with approval committees. Just an envelope with much-needed cash dropped in their hands just as you would receive a bottle of wine or a bunch of flowers. The money is dispersed immediately amidst smiles or disbelief, relief and thankfulness.
Thank G-d I've had the enormous pleasure of passing the money to my next-door neighbor, who packed and delivered the money putting a tick next to each name on the list. My name was not disclosed and few will ever know who began this operation but the people who sent money know that it isn't lying in a bank, a safe or drawer. It is in the pocket of a head of household of Gush Katif. Whatever they do with it is their business. May they use the money for good things.
Many fine organizations are collecting money for Gush Katif communities. As yet, much of it has not yet reached the people. Some have used it for specific needs. I believe our people should be given the money personally to use at their own discretion. We are people used to running our own lives. This dignity should be continued.
Israel TV news had asked me to appear and allow them to film the collection of money, the placing of money in envelopes and a scene of a family receiving the money. I refused to allow this to be filmed. The dignity of the people is most important to me. Showing the process seemed undignified and would have robbed the people of their sense of pride.
To contribute, send your check to: The Central Fund of Israel, Jay Marcus, Rehov Hagoel 13, Efrat, Israel 90435; earmarked for Rachel-Operation Band-Aid. From America, please send your tax-deductible contribution to The Central Fund of Israel, c/o Hadassah Marcus, 980 6th Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10018 - earmarked: for Rachel-Operation Band-Aid
Thank you.
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