In an amazing display of unity, on Tuesday, Dec. 2, over 800 people joined together for 36 hours in support of Orlando Torah Academy. Now in its 11th year, OTA is home to 111 children from almost 50 families. 

Thank G-d, OTA has been open for in-person learning since the beginning of the school year. After spending the last few months of last school year on Zoom, it gives everyone an extra appreciation for being back in school. But, like many other schools throughout the country, OTA has incurred increased costs and expenses in order to make the school environment as safe as possible. In addition, requests for financial assistance from struggling families have gone up and traditional fundraising events have been canceled. This created the need for a major fundraising campaign to ensure that every Jewish child is able to receive the education they need and deserve regardless of their financial situation.  

A group of generous donors stepped forward and a matching campaign was launched. An ambitious goal of $360,000 was set and the 36-hour campaign began. OTA administration and parents reached out to family, friends, and supporters from across the world, and, like Jews have done throughout the millennia, they responded. Thank G-d, by Wednesday morning the $360k had already been reached and there were still 12 hours left. At the end over $415,000 was raised to support the Jewish children of Orlando. 

One of the hallmarks of the Jewish nation is our genuine care and concern for each other. We are one and we are there for each other. Over 800 families from around the world joined together to prove once again how truly special we are.