Joseph Project serves displaced Israelis and soldiers in need during perilous war time

The Joseph Project is a humanitarian organization that has served the needs of various groups in Israel and abroad since its inception in 2000. The project has traditionally focused on importing containers filled with goods from generous donors, nonprofits, companies, and communities around the world – from the United States to China, Germany the Netherlands, and more.

Volunteers collect items from surplus or quality secondhand, then sort, pack, and ship them to Israel, and the NGO handles the customs, and international logistics  – transporting the goods to the warehouse where they are documented and catalogued before being distributed to centers and nonprofits across the country to serve those in need.

In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Israel, the Joseph Project is making a significant impact by helping Israelis in need, particularly those displaced by war.

Since the current attack on the southern communities on Oct. 7, Joseph Project had delivered 50 truckloads of aid and materials to 200 distribution sites, assisting approximately 12,000 Israelis at an estimated cost of over $2 million, as of the end of October

In fact, the situation on the ground is so fluid that it is difficult to keep track of what is being distributed.

As the chairman of the board of directors, Hank Rich explained: “The Joseph Project is doing a lot of very important work distributing aid throughout the country; by themselves and in partnership with many other NGOs. They do not have the time or ability to keep track of the number of trucks (as there are numerous partner trucks and distributions in addition to ours)  as well as a number of distribution points, numbers of people served or the value of the aid provided, it is just not actionable or possible.”

Rebekah Orlev, spokesperson for Joseph Project, added, “We rely on the generosity of donors who believe in our mission and want to see it prosper and grow to help as many as possible, and without whom we simply would not be able to do what we do.”

Recently, the Joseph Project reached out to a small village affected by the conflict, providing essential appliances to residents. This act of kindness offers immediate relief and shows solidarity with those facing adversity.

These appliances represent more than mere items. They symbolize support and remind displaced families that they are not alone. The practical benefits of these donations will make their daily lives more manageable.

As many as 300 to 400 thousand soldiers were called up without notice. The army was not able to deal with the logistics and soldiers were sleeping on the floor. The Joseph Project was able to purchase camping mattresses and watches and provide them to the soldiers. They also provide them with power banks, sunglasses, socks, neck warmers, bags and headlamps.

Amid the ongoing conflict in Israel, many families have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety. These displaced families are facing incredible challenges, from finding shelter to securing basic necessities.

The Joseph Project team visited Mevasseret Zion near Jerusalem and was able to provide food and hygiene products, as well as clothing and blankets, and to lend a hand and offer a glimmer of hope.

They also have diapers that they are providing to families that have been evacuated, along with toiletries and toys for the children, batteries for their phones and flashlights. A million and a half diapers were shipped from China during the first week of the war. Containers filled with supplies are being shipped from all over the world, while food is being purchased locally and being sent to those in need.

For years, the Joseph Project has been steadfast in its commitment to preparing for emergencies, whether they are related to security or natural disasters.

The project’s director Shmuel Salway said: “To date, the Joseph Project has successfully imported 846 forty-foot shipping containers of humanitarian aid (and counting), ensuring that essential resources reach those in need. Alongside their import operations, the Joseph Project engages in innovative initiatives, such as providing healthy food, collecting surplus items locally, and procuring high-demand goods for various individuals facing hardship."

"In the wake of the crisis on Sunday morning, October 8, our team swiftly mobilized, and our trucks were among the first to deliver humanitarian aid to Ashkelon. This critical assistance was provided between 8 and 9 in the morning and was promptly distributed to the affected areas," Salway said.

"The initial aid package was comprised of carefully selected and prepared goods chosen specifically for their relevance in such an emergency event," he added.

"Joseph Project, as an organization, continues its tireless efforts in numerous ways, including the importation of essential supplies by sea and air, managing logistics for local donors and recipients, and utilizing our infrastructure of trucks and a warehouse, along with our expertise in the field," Salway explained.

"We also operate the collaborative distribution center at the Baptist Village, helping to increase the effectiveness of partner organizations through our logistics support among other initiatives, and have purchased refrigerators and other home appliances and donated them to the evacuees who are living in the Baptist Village."

"Our overarching goal is to build and maintain a substantial inventory of supplies to be well-prepared for the next wave of emergencies. Whether it's an extension of the current conflict or a future crisis, we are committed to being ready to respond effectively and efficiently,” Salway said.

The Joseph Project's commitment to this cause highlights the power of compassion and community. It serves as a reminder that, even in challenging times, acts of kindness can bring hope and healing.

As the world watches the situation in Israel, The Joseph Project's work showcases the difference that individuals and organizations can make in the lives of those in need. Their ongoing mission demonstrates the strength of the human spirit and the importance of empathy and unity.