ZAKA Tel-Aviv volunteers are trained and deployed to: -Respond to terror attacks and mass casualty events -Arrive at rocket strike scenes within minutes -Rescue victims from car crashes, fires, and collapses -Treat medical emergencies under extreme conditions -Recover and identify those who cannot be saved -Ensure the dead are treated with dignity and respect -Coordinate with IDF, police, and emergency services nationwide
“Whoever saves a single life is considered to have saved an entire World.”
Why Zaka Tel-Aviv?
1. The Work No One Else Does
When the scene is too difficult, too complex, or too heartbreaking for others, ZAKA enters. We ensure dignity for the dead and fight for the living, no matter the cost.
2. Official Police Partners
We are the only volunteer unit officially authorized to operate in Central Israel's most sensitive disaster zones. When the Police command needs backup, ZAKA Tel-Aviv is the first call.
3. Holistic Protection
We are more than ambulances. We are divers, climbers, dog handlers, and grief counselors. We protect the People of Israel on land, at sea, and in spirit.
Our Partners
Frequently asked questions
Why do you need donations if you are a volunteer organization?
While our volunteers do not take a salary, the equipment they use is incredibly costly. From bulletproof vests and oxygen tanks to rescue boats and thermal drones, it costs millions to keep our team safe and operational. We rely on donors to provide the tools that save lives.
How is Zaka Tel-Aviv different from other emergency medical services?
While most first-response organizations focus primarily on immediate medical aid and ambulance transport, ZAKA is the "Special Forces" of emergency response. We are called in for complex rescues (collapsed buildings, deep water recovery) and remain on the scene long after others leave to ensure the dignity of the deceased (Chesed Shel Emes). We complete the circle of rescue that others begin.
Does Zaka Tel-Aviv only respond to war and terror attacks?
No. While we are always on the front lines of national crises, the majority of our work involves daily civilian emergencies—highway accidents, missing persons cases, drownings, and natural disasters. We operate 365 days a year to protect the people of Israel.
Are you funded by the Israeli government?
Zaka Tel-Aviv is an independent non-profit. While we work hand-in-hand with the Israeli Police and the IDF as an authorized extension of emergency services, we rely primarily on private philanthropy to purchase our ambulances, rescue jeeps, and medical supplies.
Does Zaka Tel-Aviv help non-Jewish victims?
Absolutely. We are a humanitarian organization dedicated to saving and honoring every human life, regardless of religion, race, or gender. We have Muslim, Druze, and Bedouin units and serve all sectors of Israeli society with equal dedication.
Can I donate in honor or memory of a loved one?
Yes. Many families choose to dedicate life-saving equipment (like a defibrillator or ambucycle) in memory of a loved one. You can note this in the donation form or contact our office for dedication opportunities.
Do I get a receipt?
A donation receipt will be sent to you at the email address you provide on this form. Please be sure to keep a copy of your receipt for tax purposes. If you select a recurring donation, you will be sent an individual receipt each month when your donation is processed.
Is this donation tax deductible?
Zaka Tel-Aviv is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We'll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation.
Is my donation secure?
Absolutely. The security and confidentiality of your information is our highest priority. We use industry-standard SSL (secure socket layer) technology to protect your information and provide a safe and secure environment for online donations. We will not sell, trade or share your personal information with anyone else.
