| Our next stop was at Immanuel, a beleaguered community of 400 ultra-orthodox families founded in 1983. Two years ago, Immanuel was battered by two devastating terror attacks in a short period of time that killed 20 people. Many residents left the community. After the second attack, an Israeli army presence was sent to protect the community. We were pleased to deliver a duffel bag filled with toys that we had brought with us from America for Immanuel's children. But the community is suffering from budget cuts imposed by the government. Immanuel's leaders are trying to entice businesses and industry to the area. But since it lies outside the planned route of the security fence, its future is uncertain. We felt saddened by their struggle, and many in the group felt determined to help them |
