A fundraiser by the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities to help collect protective gear for the Israel Defense Force culminated Thursday in 10 duffle bags worth of goods being packed and shipped.
Allan Ross, executive director of the Federation, said Thursday that after the war with Hamas began Oct. 7, it was learned that there were shortages of protective, tactical and medical gear for members of the Israel Defense Force. Additionally, much of the gear available was old, worn out and substandard.
The Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities partnered with BC Lev Echad that created an Amazon gift list of items needed now by the Israel Defense Force.
The Quad City Jewish Federation raised more than $10,600 worth of equipment from Amazon, Ross said.
“BC Lev Echad has sent thousands of duffle bags of material to Israel,” he said. “We’ve gotten donations from the Jewish and non-Jewish communities. Some people bought the items on Amazon and brought them to us and others gave money and we bought the items that were needed.”
The items needed included hydration packs, knee pads, utility pouches, solar glasses, tactical cargo pants and military goggles, among other items, he added.
“We also have put notes from the kids and members of the community with the items thanking the Israeli Defense Force for defending Israeli citizens to bring a moral boost to those men and women,” Ross said.
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