Yad Sarah Branch In Neve Dekalim Closes Its Doors
After 20 years of activity, the Yad Sarah branch in Neveh Dekalim in the Gaza Strip closed its doors on Tuesday, August 16th. The branch had been open five days a week, and was manned by 12 volunteers, all residents of Gush Katif settlements. The volunteers lent annually hundreds of items of medical rehabilitative equipment. Among those who borrowed equipment were area residents injured during the last four years of terror. In recent weeks an effort was made to collect items which had not yet been returned, and volunteers removed equipment and the contents of the branch for shipment to Yad Sarah's main warehouse.
The farewell letter sent by the Yad Sarah administration to the branch volunteers said: "We have never before parted with devoted volunteers, that worked all hours of the day to assist everyone, who want to continue to do so in the place of their new residences. We wish to thank you for all you have done for the people of Gush Katif, for the respect you demonstrated to every person who borrowed medical equipment; for the improved quality of life you provided for each person, and for the love and smiling good cheer with which you volunteered."
To address the continued needs of the communities, Yad Sarah is considering opening a new branch in the Nitzanim area where many families have been relocated.
Yad Sarah is assisting in a new humanitarian grass root effort "For our Brothers" . A temporary communication center has been established at Yad Sarah Headquarters manned by volunteers almost around the clock to channel offers of assistance from the public to those who have had to leave their homes.
Volunteers at over l00 Yad Sarah branches throughout the country have assisted 380,000 people this past year. Yad Sarah does not receive government funding; all of its activities are supported by contributions.
For additional information: David Rothner, Yad Sarah Spokesperson, Tel. 02-644-4430 or 0523-606-726
Or visit their webpage.
