Our ambulance answers 10,000th call!

An ambulance donated to Israeli medics by Jewish News readers in 2010 has been called to more than 10,000 emergencies since it entered service.

Together with members of Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue, Jewish News readers raised enough money to buy the ambulance and donate it to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national ambulance, blood-services and disaster-relief organisation.

Based in Bat Hefer, the ambulance has attended 10,733 calls, including almost 8,000 adult emergencies and more than 600 child emergencies. The vehicle and crew have also helped more than 100 women to give birth.

MDA’s fundraising director Yonatan Yagodovsky marked the achievements with a message of gratitude to British Jews.

He said: “We thank you for your ongoing support to MDA in Israel in helping us to keep our mission.”

MDA-UK chief executive Daniel Burger also added his thanks.

“I remain extremely grateful to the readers of Jewish News for their generosity in helping to fund this Mobile Intensive Care Unit,” he said. “They are responsible for the saving of many lives since the vehicle entered service.

“What makes it even more special is that Bat Hefer, the MDA station where the vehicle is based, is also funded by British philanthropy.”

Jewish News news editor Justin Cohen said: “It’s incredible to look back now and think the money we all raised has helped to save thousands of people.

“We’re so pleased to hear that the ambulance has been crucial in doing so. It’s certainly a legacy our readers and the shul can be extremely proud of, as it shows Anglo-Jewry at its best.”