More than half a million raised for Hatzola NW within hours of firebomb ambulance attack
The Secretary of State for Health also confirms that the government will fund 'permanent replacement' ambulances
Thousands of people have donated money to the Hatzola NW charity after four of their Golders Green-based ambulances were targeted in a firebombing overnight, with more than half a million pounds donated in the space of a few hours.
The attack, which took place in the early hours of Monday morning, showed individuals in hoods setting fire to the vehicles on Highfield Road, in a parking lot belonging to the adjacent Machzikei Hadath synagogue. Subsequent explosions from the torched vehicles shattered the windows of nearby apartments; no injuries in connection to the arson attack were reported.
At the time of writing, more than 1,500 donors to a Charity Extra page had raised more than £415,000 for Hatzola NW, with £200,000 of that figure donated by the Ronson Foundation.
“Following the horrific antisemitic attack this morning on Hatzola Ambulances in North West London, our community is once again confronted with the stark reality of hatred directed at those who dedicate their lives to saving others”, the fundraising page message said.
“Hatzola’s responders are there for everyone -day and night- providing critical, lifesaving care without hesitation and without charge. To target them is not only an act of violence, but an attack on the very values of compassion and humanity that bind our community together.
“We are launching an urgent appeal to rebuild what has been lost – we cannot afford to let our life saving work be put on pause.”
Separately, a GoFundMe page set up early this morning had raised more than £73,000 of its £125,000 aim at the time of writing, with more than 700 people donating. Many others donated directly to the charity via its website.
The GoFundMe page described how: “Our community has been shaken by a devastating fire that destroyed vital Hatzola resources. This isn’t just the loss of vehicles or equipment — it’s the loss of a rapid emergency response system that has saved countless lives.
Hatzola is known for getting to emergencies faster than traditional ambulance services, often arriving within minutes when every second truly matters. And it’s important to say this clearly: Hatzalah doesn’t just serve one group — they respond to anyone in need, regardless of background, faith, or identity. If you’re in the area and you need help, they come.
“Now, they need us. Without immediate support, their ability to respond quickly — to heart attacks, accidents, and life-threatening situations — is at risk. We cannot let that happen.”
Jewish News understands that Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, also reached out directly to the Jewish community this morning.
“I’ve got London Ambulance Service providing support today, I’ve got 4 ambulances arriving later today or tomorrow morning to replace those ambulances destroyed and we will be funding permanent replacements”, he told community leaders.
“The best form of solidarity is practical and the Jewish community should not foot the bill for this despicable act of hatred. The country will stand with you.”
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