The wildfire in northern Israel's Carmel Mountain region is under control. Now, Israel begins to assess the impact of the worst natural disaster in its history: 42 people have died, more than 20,000 have been evacuated from their homes and businesses. Estimates of acreage burned range from 8,000 acres to 12,500 acres, in a country where forest land makes up only 7% of the total land mass. Between 4 and 5 million trees were destroyed.

Throughout the dark days of this disaster, Federation partners -- the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Israel Trauma Coalition -- took immediate action to help everyone affected by the fire. Now, as the renewal and rebuilding effort begins, they are providing essential relief including respite day trips for children left homeless by the blaze, counseling for families, transportation for students, and so much more.

Yemin Orde, a youth village and educational institution for Israeli youth at risk (children from broken homes, orphans and immigrants without parents in Israel) was devastated by the fire - its residential facilities were destroyed and over 40% of its buildings sustained severe damage.

The funds you contribute are helping to ensure that children have transportation to school while living in temporary shelters; that trauma counseling is available to all who need it; and that Israeli families can celebrate Hanukkah, and remember that there is light in the midst of every dark time.

Click here to donate to the Israel Wildfire Relief Fund.