Washing machine for Miriam and Reuven

Miriam, 40, and Reuven, 52, both immigrated to Israel from Ethiopia. They have four children, ages 5-18, and are doing their very best to meet all their needs.

Life has been difficult for the family the last few years, however. Reuven, who served in the IDF and did years of reserve service, has been working at a hospital for over 25 years. Miriam, who worked in the past, had to stop working a year ago due to health issues. She recently underwent back surgery for a slipped disc and is slowly recuperating. To add to their troubles, their youngest child, Roi, has been diagnosed with severe autism. He cannot be left alone and his care is physically, emotionally and financially draining. The family has a mortgage to pay off, as well as other loans and debts. With Reuven as the only wage earner, they are barely making ends meet each month.

This is a high-functioning, optimistic and determined couple. They are caught in a downward financial spiral and need a chance to get back on their feet. Social services are helping wherever they can. Miriam and Reuven’s most pressing need right now is a new washing machine. Raising four children without one is close to impossible.