East End Communities Come Together in Wake of Israel-Hamas War

East End residents have been rallying, holding vigils and organizing donation drives for those impacted by the Israel-Hamas conflict that broke out following a deadly rampage in which terrorists kidnapped about 200 Israelis.

The Jewish Center of the Hamptons, Temple Israel Riverhead, Temple Adas Israel in Sag Harbor, the North Fork Reform Synagogue, Chabad of the Hamptons and the Hampton Synagogue in Westhampton Beach all rallied community members in the days and weeks following the attacks.

“While the entire Jewish people is expressing solidarity with the people of Israel in these dark and horrifying days, we want to give them a way to feel hope and strength,” said Rabbi Marc Schneier, rabbi of The Hampton Synagogue, which recently released seven different prayer videos in its “We Pray for Israel” campaign to encourage people to pray for the victims.

Hundreds of supporters turned out for the Rally In Solidarity with Israel at the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton on October 11, where rabbis led the gathering in prayer. Following prayer, Israel’s national anthem, “Hatikvah,” was sung. Many attended in person, while others joined through Zoom from parts all over the globe.

On Shelter Island, the Eccentric Bagel, the island’s only bagel shop that opened last year, has raised thousands of dollars and donated the funds to United Hatzalah, an volunteer organization that provides life-saving assistance, and emergency equipment to Israel. The organization, who has over 6,500 volunteers, requested more supplies, which prompted Eccentric Bagel to step in. The shop chose the 18, because in Hebrew, the number typically corresponds with the word, “chai,” which is Hebrew for “alive.”

“This campaign is a lifeline for those in need, and we are committed to ensuring that life-saving equipment reaches the hands of those who require it the most,” said Amy Weinstein, co-founder of The Eccentric Bagel.