Jessica Mallah

After the Oct. 7 attacks Indianapolis native Jessica Mallah felt sick about the situation and wanted to do something to help. In early November, Mallah received an email from Taglit Birthright Israel about a two week volunteer opportunity in Israel to take part in food rescue operations and the distribution of goods for civil and military personnel. Within a week, she had interviewed and was accepted into the program. On Dec. 3 she flew to Israel to embark on a service journey that would touch her in ways she did not imagine.

“The first thing you see getting off the plane is all the hostage signs. That was heart-wrenching," Mallah said. “Walking through, you’re like, what did I get myself into? What am I doing right now?”

Mallah met up with 42 other volunteers from Australia, London, and all around the United States. The group was led by an organization called Sachlav, which provides educational tourism opportunities.

For two weeks, the group volunteered at three different farms where they harvested grapefruit, clementines, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The Oct. 7 attacks created a large shortage of farm workers as many people were called to serve in the army. Mallah stated the farms had gone from between 30-40 workers to just a handful. For this reason, the farms have been struggling to keep up with the harvest resulting in rows of rotting fruit and vegetables.

“The Israelis were so appreciative of us being there,” Mallah said. “I'm sure my little hands did a minuscule amount of help, but the amount of appreciation that I was given and felt while there was really cool."

Mallah was overwhelmed by the gratitude from the people they served. Everywhere they went, her group would receive gifts, discounts, and many thanks.

Mallah returned home on Dec. 19 with a passion to urge those who can volunteer, to do just that.

“Forty-two other people offered their lives for two weeks, to hop on a plane to go to Israel and help. I mean, we had no idea what we got ourselves into,” Mallah said. “ I believe it was one of the greatest mitzvahs that I’ve been a part of.”