Chaim V’Chessed

July 2015

Chaim V’Chessed Opens its Doors

In 2015, Chaim V’Chessed opens its doors with a bold mission to assist English speakers navigating life in Israel.

At the urging of Rabbanim and community leaders, the organization launched with the goal of supporting English speakers in every aspect of Israeli life – from bureaucracy to medical care and beyond. 

Chaim V’Chessed began in a small Jerusalem apartment in the Gush Shmonim neighborhood, with just three dedicated staff members –  and a very big dream.  Who could have imagined that by 2025, with Hashem’s help, we would have handled over 234,931 cases and responded to more than 537,328 phone calls?  

Today, Chaim V’Chessed operates from a bustling corporate office filled with professionals, advocates, and caseworkers – and the same sense of purpose and personal dedication still guides everything we do.

2016

First Appearance in the Knesset

In 2016, Chaim V’Chessed makes its first appearance in the Knesset, advocating for fair access to public services.

At the time, foreign residents were unable to obtain a Rav Kav transportation card – an essential part of Israeli daily life. Thanks to the efforts of our representatives and new ties with Transportation Ministry officials, the system was successfully opened to non-citizens.

Today, Chaim V’Chessed is invited to testify in various Knesset hearings on nearly a monthly basis. These efforts have resulted in real impact and tangible improvements for the English-speaking community in Israel.

2017

Enhanced Hospital Assistance

Chaim V’Chessed significantly expands its hospital operations, deepening its support for patients and families.

In 2017, Mrs. Nechama Nulman joined Zevi and Arala Weingarten as a hospital representative, bringing her trademark warmth, compassion – and plenty of iced coffee – to patients in need.

In a country blessed with no shortage of medical professionals, Chaim V’Chessed fills the critical gaps that others often miss. Whether it’s securing urgent appointments, gaining access to top doctors, or simply tracking down an extra pillow, our team is there when no one else is.

Chaim V’Chessed provides hospital support to patients and families throughout Israel, with a particular emphasis on Jerusalem. Our three full-time hospital representatives are stationed in Jerusalem, where they patrol the city’s major medical centers daily – assisting existing cases and seeking out those lost in the system.

Available 24/6, every week of the year, our team offers clarity, calm, and practical help at life’s most vulnerable moments.

2018

Government Relations Department Established

In 2018, Chaim V’Chessed establishes its Government Relations Department, opening new doors for advocacy at the highest levels.

That year, Mrs. Rachel Morgenstern joined the organization as our first Government Relations Liaison, laying the groundwork for what would become one of Chaim V’Chessed’s most significant departments.

What we quickly learned was that advocacy is often a matter of educating officials about the needs of English speakers. Perhaps due to a subconscious bias that says that Americans are wealthy or otherwise ‘alright’, we often find services being complicated or, worse, denied based on perceived misconceptions.

Through tireless efforts and strong relationship-building, the department quickly developed ties with influential government officials including Bituach Leumi, Misrad Hapnim, the Ministry of Transportation, and many more.

Today, the Government Relations Department is a five-person powerhouse, engaging with top-level ministries on behalf of our clients on an hourly basis, ensuring English speakers receive the access, answers, and assistance they need.

2019

Key Partnership with Bituach Leumi

In 2019, Chaim V’Chessed builds vital connections with Bituach Leumi, unlocking a new level of assistance for our community.

That year, CEO Paysach Freedman met with Dani Zaken, a senior official at Bituach Leumi. This initial connection enabled Chaim V’Chessed to intervene in urgent medical emergencies, helping clients access critical healthcare benefits.

Following this, Chaim V’Chessed representatives established a close relationship with Meir Spiegler, then the Director General of Bituach Leumi. This marked the beginning of a deepening relationship that significantly expanded the organization’s ability to assist with a wide range of Bituach Leumi matters.

An especially important service was developed under the leadership of Mrs. Shani Wahrsager of Chaim V’Chessed’s Medical Department: the ability to register newborn babies of non-citizens with Bituach Leumi – even before the infants receive passports or visas.

Separately, Mrs. Candice Brenner and Mrs. Hadas Teller of our Rights and Benefits Department provide expert guidance on disability allowance applications. Thanks to their efforts, Chaim V’Chessed clients have received over 7 million NIS to date – vital government funding they were rightfully eligible for, but may never have accessed without our assistance.

Today, Chaim V’Chessed handles more than 7,000 Bituach Leumi cases annually, advocating across all departments to ensure that English-speaking residents receive the benefits and support they deserve.

2020

Pandemic Pushes Chaim V’Chessed to Global Prominence 

CVC Sukkos Event 2020

In 2020, Chaim V’Chessed becomes the leading voice for English speakers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world grappled with the outbreak of COVID-19, Israel sealed its borders and introduced ever-shifting restrictions. Amid the uncertainty and confusion, Chaim V’Chessed emerged as a trusted source of clear, accurate updates for English speakers around the globe. The organization fielded thousands of urgent requests – ranging from medical emergencies to entry permits for students, simchas, and bereavements – while actively lobbying government agencies to ease the burden on the Anglo community.

During this period, Chaim V’Chessed’s caseload skyrocketed to over 4,000 cases per month, and cooperation with Israeli authorities reached historic levels. The organization also provided critical on-the-ground support, including distributing thousands of welcome and food packages to individuals in isolation.

In a time of unprecedented crisis, Chaim V’Chessed became not only an advocate—but an anchor—for the community.

2020

Community Steps Up to Support the Mission

In December 2020, Chaim V’Chessed launches its first-ever community crowdfunding campaign.

Community support for Chaim V’Chessed has been nothing short of extraordinary. People feel deeply grateful for the help they’ve received – and they are eager for the chance to give back.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the organization is that Chaim V’Chessed provides all of its services completely free of charge. This turns the community’s support into a meaningful expression of appreciation – a heartfelt way to give back for the help they received.

While the organization was initially founded with seed funding from a small group of generous donors, CEO Paysach Freedman personally shouldered the financial burden for several years. However, following the explosive growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that broader communal support was needed.

For the first time, in 2020, Chaim V’Chessed turned to the public, launching a campaign with an ambitious goal of raising $400,000. The response was overwhelming – 5,396 donors contributed a staggering $520,000.

Today, the organization’s annual budget exceeds $1.6 million, with the majority raised through its flagship December campaign, which now brings in well over $1 million each year.

2021

Building Bridges with the Population Authority (Misrad Hapnim)

In July 2021, Chaim V’Chessed initiates extensive relations with the Population Authority (Misrad HaPnim).

That month, representatives met with senior officials from the Population Authority to address issues affecting English-speaking residents and Olim. What began with a small meeting quickly grew into a full-time partnership, with a dedicated Interior Ministry official appointed to work closely with Chaim V’Chessed.

Today, the organization maintains constant contact with Population Authority staff, assisting clients with Aliyah, visas, birth certificates, passports and much more.

2021

Expanding Space, Expanding Impact

In October 2021, Chaim V’Chessed moves to new headquarters in the RAD Tower.

After years of rapid growth, the organization outgrew its original offices and found a much-needed upgrade in the spacious, modern RAD Tower, located in Har Hotzvim.

This new location not only provided room to expand but also greatly elevated the professionalism and energy of the entire team.

Today, Chaim V’Chessed has doubled its space in the RAD Tower, operating as a bustling hub that supports nonstop activity and service for the English-speaking community.

2022

A Lifeline for Mothers of Special Children

In June 2022, Chaim V’Chessed launches its first-ever retreat for mothers of children with special needs.

After years of guiding families through the complexities of raising children with special needs, Chaim V’Chessed recognized that the mothers themselves needed space to connect, recharge, and draw strength from one another. The inaugural retreat took place at the Dead Sea Leonardo Hotel and welcomed 100 mothers for an unforgettable experience.

Today, this retreat has become an annual hallmark of Chaim V’Chessed, with over 150 mothers attending each year. The program offers participants a unique and powerful dose of chizuk, inspiration, and deep emotional support from those who truly understand their journey.

2023

Partnering with the U.S. Embassy for Passport Solutions

In February 2023, Chaim V’Chessed hosts the U.S. Embassy for its first-ever passport event.

Amid a worldwide backlog in U.S. passport processing, Chaim V’Chessed coordinated with the U.S. Embassy to bring consular staff directly to our offices. Nearly 200 families were able to submit passport applications for their newborn children in a quick, efficient, and stress-free setting – a welcome solution during a time of significant delay and confusion.

Today, Chaim V’Chessed continues to host periodic passport events and maintains strong ties with the U.S. Embassy. These connections allow us to clarify procedures, share new updates with the community, and step in when urgent or complex passport issues arise.

2023

Responding to Crisis After October 7

In October 2023, following the horrific October 7 attacks, Chaim V’Chessed steps up to support the community during a national crisis.

As Israel was thrust into war, Chaim V’Chessed quickly mobilized to respond to the unprecedented challenges facing the English-speaking community. With government offices shuttered, flight schedules in chaos and new wartime regulations rolled out daily, our team provided critical guidance for travelers stranded inside and outside the country. We assisted with emergency benefits, helped families navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and offered steady, calming support in a time of national upheaval.
Today, as the battle continues in Gaza and beyond, Chaim V’Chessed remains on the front lines of communal support – responding to wartime needs, adapting to evolving realities and ensuring that English speakers are never left to face crisis alone.

2024

Aliyah Minister Initiates Collaboration with Chaim V’Chessed

In 2024, Chaim V’Chessed forges a new partnership with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

During a visit to Chaim V’Chessed headquarters, Aliyah Minister Ofir Sofer was deeply impressed by the organization’s scope and professionalism.

This meeting sparked a wave of follow-up visits by ministry teams, culminating in July 2024 when Minister Sofer surprised Chaim V’Chessed leadership by unveiling a detailed plan for long-term cooperation.

Today, Chaim V’Chessed maintains regular contact with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, working hand-in-hand to better serve new immigrants and enhance the klitah experience for English speakers in Israel.

2025

Providing Support and Solutions Throughout the Iran Conflict

In June 2025, Chaim V’Chessed becomes a lifeline during Israel’s conflict with Iran.

When war erupted in the early hours of June 13, daily life in Israel ground to a halt – but Chaim V’Chessed mobilized immediately. Recognized as a vital community service, the organization received permission to operate even as government offices and public services shut down. Staff members were transported to the office by private drivers, on-site childcare was arranged, and operations continued under wartime conditions.

With Hashem’s help, Chaim V’Chessed supported the English-speaking community on every front: handling thousands of urgent calls and emails, assisting patients facing canceled treatments, clarifying rapidly shifting government policies, and arranging evacuation flights for foreign students. The organization’s website became a trusted hub for real-time updates, visited by tens of thousands, with its information shared widely around the globe. Targeted videos offered strength and comfort to a frightened public, while personalized assistance brought relief to those navigating fear and uncertainty.

Even as sirens sounded and anxiety rose, Chaim V’Chessed remained a steady, compassionate presence – proving once again that, in times of crisis, the community is never alone.

Chaim V’Chessed. We’re here for you.