An evening of unity, solidarity and hope
'I knew I wanted to arrange an event that would be creative and fun, to bring people together.'
WIZO Matan together with WIZO Tova hosted a Dance for Israel Charity Event at Hamerkaz Centre, raising much-needed funds for WIZO’s Emergency Appeal.
The evening was inspired by Leah Shmerling and Simonne Oberklajd Whine and attracted over 110 women. Shmerling was determined to bring light back into her heart and to the hearts of others at such an otherwise dark time.
“I knew I wanted to arrange an event that would be creative and fun, to bring people together. When speaking with Simonne and sharing ideas for the function, it all came together,” Shmerling said.
The event began with Jamie Hyams OAM, senior policy analyst, Australia/Israel Jewish Affairs Council, giving a highly informative talk about the current situation in Israel followed by a question-and-answer session. One of the participants stressed how crucial it was for the audience to be able to ask questions and have them answered in a factual, impartial way and in a safe space.
This segment was followed by Rabbi Motty Liberow, who led everyone in closing their eyes and saying prayers for the IDF and the safe return of those taken hostage in Gaza. Richelle Arber from ZOOZ organised the Israeli dancing. The evening was one of unity, solidarity and hope. David Southwick MP made a surprise appearance and commended participants for taking the time for “much-needed self-care”. Kosher Kingdom and volunteers donated the refreshments.
Attendee Hila Kwiat said, “This was the first time I have been out since October 7. Although I knew it was going to be dancing, I would never have thought that it would be such a happy, lively, feel-good night; I hope they will do more of it.”
Attendee Hadassah Jordan said, “With every fibre in my body, I tried to resist dancing, [it was] impossible. The air was filled with joy and hope. Seeing women come together, singing and dancing filled me with strength.”
Funds raised on the night go directly to WIZO Victoria’s Emergency Appeal supporting the most vulnerable population in need of immediate relief. Over 24,000 food and clothing packages have already been distributed to soldiers on the front line and families who have fled the South.
WIZO Youth Villages have welcomed and provided accommodation for families who cannot return to their homes. The “I am not ok” campaign has been launched in Israel in response to the looming mental health crisis, increasing psychological support and trauma counselling for women, children, families and the elderly.
Emergency hotline services are providing extended hours taking over 2700 support calls a day. WIZO was the first to re-open 11 day care centres in Israel’s seven major hospitals so first responders could be free to continue their critical life-saving work. As the largest welfare organisation in Israel, partnering with the Israeli government for a strong Israeli society, these are just some of the over 800 projects that WIZO is addressing on the ground.
Donations can be made to WIZO Victoria’s Emergency Appeal
by calling (03) 9272 5588 or at donate.mycause.com.au/cause/