Chef Eyal Shani’s new Malka NYC kosher restaurant in the Dumbo section of Brooklyn, N.Y., celebrated its grand opening on Sept. 23. The sold-out opening evening served as a fundraiser to rebuild the Sdot Negev region in southern Israel, along with a therapeutic farm.
While cherishing the all-new menu created by the Michelin star chef, guests supported the La’Aretz Foundation, which provides direct assistance to Israelis in need. The foundation set out on a $100,000 goal to rebuild the Sdot Negev Regional Council, one of the most devastated areas from the Oct. 7 attacks, and to assist families impacted by the ongoing war one year later.
La’Aretz Foundation and its vibrant community of more than 2,000 members have supported 300 Israeli families left without government assistance; provided scholarships to 172 students serving in the Israel Defense Forces reserves; and helped 70 aliyah applicants return to Israel.
“We are so grateful to our tremendous community for coming out, less than a month away from the anniversary of Oct. 7, to provide crucial support to those who need it at moments that matter,” said Shelly Pitman, co-founder of the La’Aretz Foundation with her husband, Mike. “To work hand-in-hand with the Sdot Negev Regional Council and play a crucial role in rebuilding this beautiful community is an honor, and we do not take this role lightly. We are mobilizing our community to help those in need right now as Sdot Negev prepares for the future.”
Tamir Idan, head of the Sdot Negev Regional Council, stunned the crowd as he revealed exclusive footage from Oct. 7. Idan had been reported dead on that horrific day, and his family and loved ones went through an emotional rollercoaster on that day until they found out he was indeed alive.
“My story is one of many from that fateful day that no one should ever go through,” Idan said. “Our entire region was devastated, but we are a resilient community. Together, thanks to the help of the La’Aretz Foundation, we are rebuilding to be stronger than ever before. Our partnership will ensure that our community members can continue the healing process, both physically and mentally.”
Professor Boaz Ganor, president of Reichman University, spoke at the event. La’Aretz Foundation has awarded over 170 scholarships to Israeli students, many of whom are reservists risking their lives since Oct. 7.
“We are fortunate to have established such a meaningful relationship with La’Aretz Foundation,” Ganor said. “Thanks to their dedication, a significant number of students who are serving in the reserves can get an education with one less issue to worry about.”
