Arthur Anderman (holding the briefcase), his wife, and
hospital spokeswoman Leah Malul touring the hospital.

December 30, 2008 / 3 Tevet 5769

The residents of Ashkelon, a city bombarded by missiles, have received help from donors just prior to Operation Cast Lead.

This past November, an estate manager from New York named Arthur Anderman toured Ashkelon and visited Barzilai Hospital and two residences for the elderly run under the auspices of the Jewish Agency's Amigour company.  As part of his visit, Arthur learned of the need for defense systems to protect the hospital and residences for the elderly from missile attacks.

Several weeks later, Hamas violated its ceasefire agreement with Israel and fired Grad missiles into Ashkelon.

In light of the situation, Mr. Anderman decided to donate $50,000 via the Jewish Agency toward defense systems for the hospital, and additional $50,000 for the residences of elderly immigrants in Ashkelon.

Arthur also decided to donate $35,000 toward furnishing the synagogue in the Ben Yakir youth village.