American Zionist Movement Successfully Delivers Purim Mishloach Manot to Tatzpitaniyot Unit – IDF Women Spotters – on Gaza Border

(New York, NY) – The American Zionist Movement (AZM) is proud to announce the success of its Purim Connection Mishloach Manot campaign, which raised nearly $40,000 to provide care packages for 700 soldiers, reservists, and family members of the Tatzpitaniyot, the all-women IDF unit of spotters serving along the Gaza border. These dedicated soldiers monitor cameras and intelligence systems to protect Israel’s southern communities.

Through the generosity of donors across the country, AZM ensured that each individual received a Mishloach Manot package filled with hand-made products from small businesses (many women-owned) across Israel. Many of these businesses have been deeply affected by the ongoing war, making this initiative a dual effort to support both soldiers and Israeli entrepreneurs. The packages were personally delivered erev Purim to the bases where the Tatzpitaniyot serve, reinforcing the community’s gratitude for their service.

The Tatzpitaniyot were on the front lines during the October 7 Hamas attacks, with many unit members tragically killed or kidnapped. Despite their vital role in national security, these soldiers often remain behind the scenes and are overlooked in holiday support efforts. The heartfelt gifts, including personal notes from AZM supporters across the country, provided them with a much-needed sense of appreciation and solidarity.

One of the most meaningful moments of the campaign took place at the first delivery stop, near Kibbutz Zikim, where two bereaved mothers from the unit joined in distributing the Purim gifts to honor the memory of their daughters. The packages also featured products from businesses located in nearby Kibbutzim, such as Carmia, fostering a direct connection between the soldiers and local communities.

This initiative was sponsored by the American Zionist Movement and implemented in partnership with ESEK, a social business in Israel dedicated to supporting small businesses affected by the war. AZM also collaborated with Otef Aza for the Tatzpitaniyot, a grassroots organization that has provided ongoing support to the unit’s members and their families for several years.

In a special prelude to the package distribution, AZM was honored to personally present a Mishloach Manot package to Agam Berger, a former Tatzpitanit who endured 482 days as a hostage of Hamas in Gaza. AZM President Deborah Isaac and Andrew Keene, an AZM lay leader who founded ESEK, were honored to meet Agam and her mother, Merav. Deborah Isaac said: “It was an honor to meet Agam and to embrace her and the other Tatzpitaniyot. The overwhelming support for this Purim gesture symbolizes the unwavering solidarity of the global Jewish community with those who have sacrificed so much for Israel’s security.”

AZM extends its deepest gratitude to all the donors and partners who made this campaign possible. Their support not only brought joy to the soldiers but also strengthened the resilience of Israeli small businesses. As AZM continues its mission to promote Zionism and support Israel, this campaign stands as a powerful testament to the impact of unity and generosity.

For more information, please contact: Arielle Noah [email protected]

For photos and additional details, see: https://azm.org/purim2025/