From Personal Crisis to Social Action
Moshiko Moscowitz, a businessman, entrepreneur, and social activist, has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for social change. Following the passing of his mother, Nechama Halperin-Moscowitz, a social worker who dedicated her life to helping others, Moscowitz, together with his brother Shmulik, founded the Nechama & Hatzalah for Israel organization.
Their goal was to turn mutual responsibility into tangible actions, beyond mere slogans. What began as a modest initiative quickly grew into a major entity supporting tens of thousands of Israelis—soldiers and civilians alike—driven by Nechama’s vision of compassion and giving. This article explores Moscowitz’s impactful work, the influence of his organization, and his vision for the future.
The “Iron Swords” Command Center
On October 7, 2023, with the outbreak of the “Swords of Iron” war, Moscowitz acted swiftly to establish an emergency operations center in Ramat Gan. While many were reeling from the horrific massacre, he channeled his grief into action, creating a hub for collecting medical supplies, food, protective gear, and providing emotional and mental health support. Starting with a modest budget of approximately 200,000 shekels, the center rapidly raised over 6 million shekels. These funds supported a wide range of relief efforts, including aid for soldiers and civilians, coordinated with hundreds of volunteers from across the country.
Broad Support for Soldiers and Civilians
Moscowitz’s relentless efforts sparked a chain reaction of solidarity. The organization provided protective gear to over 11,400 frontline fighters, including body armor, helmets, and personal equipment. Approximately 23,000 civilians displaced from their homes in the south and north due to the war received emergency aid, including food, essential supplies, and logistical support. The organization established urban shelters and alternative educational frameworks for displaced children, ensuring stable routines amid chaos. Additionally, volunteers offered sensitive emotional support to families of hostages and missing persons, providing comfort during their darkest moments.
Action on the Ground and Beyond
Moscowitz did not limit himself to managing operations from the organization’s headquarters. He integrated his work with active reserve duty, spending over 450 days on the frontlines in Gaza and along the northern border. His efforts bridged the military and civilian fronts, demonstrating that true societal resilience lies in their coordination. His work earned widespread recognition, with ministers, Knesset members, and public figures visiting the command center to support the organization’s initiatives. Recently, the organization launched an ambulance for civilians and soldiers, with plans for another, funded by generous donors.
A Vision for the Future: Building Social Resilience
The Nechama & Hatzalah for Israel organization, led by Moscowitz, aims to expand its activities in the coming years, focusing on rehabilitating communities affected in the south and north. “Not everyone can fight on the frontlines, but every Jew can be a partner—whether through funding, volunteering, or lending a hand,” Moscowitz says. He views the war as a wake-up call for Israeli society and an opportunity to mobilize the Jewish diaspora for a collective effort. Services like radiation protection consulting could enhance the safety of shelters operated by the organization. His vision emphasizes strengthening Israel’s social resilience through sustained community action.
Moshiko Moscowitz embodies a rare form of leadership that emerges from the grassroots, driven by personal pain and a commitment to mutual responsibility. Through the Nechama & Hatzalah for Israel organization, he demonstrates how small and large actions can unite communities and restore hope. Supported by thousands of volunteers, generous donations, and a forward-looking vision, Moscowitz continues to lead a revolution of solidarity. Join initiatives like these today and discover how social action can transform Israel’s reality for the better.