A Year of Resilience and Growth: Reflecting on 2024 with Lev Haolam
In 2024, thanks to our amazing subscribers, we continued supporting hundreds of Jewish pioneers, uplifting communities, and building lasting connections to Israel – even in the face of extraordinary challenges.
As we close out 2024, it’s time to look back on a year that tested and strengthened us in equal measure. From supporting small businesses and artisans to providing a lifeline during Israel’s most challenging moments, Lev Haolam has been a bridge between our global family and the heart of the Holy Land.
Our subscribers have helped Israeli pioneers thrive, even during the uncertainty of war. In this post, we’ll share stories of resilience, achievements, and the deep connections the Lev Haolam community nurtured with Israel.
How Our Subscribers Helped Hundreds of Israeli Artisans Thrive
In 2024, thanks to our incredible subscribers, we were able to continue supporting over 1,820 pioneering families across Israel. This year was filled with extraordinary challenges, yet our subscriber’s unwavering commitment allowed these families to overcome obstacles, thrive, and sustain their connection to the Holy Land.
In the settlement of Itamar, Shimon and Sarah Barda invested in two new machines – a large industrial mixer and a packaging machine – revolutionizing their boutique cosmetics business. These upgrades have enabled them to increase production, offering their all-natural products to more customers. Sarah recalls their first Lev Haolam order as a turning point: “It gave us the inspiration to continue.” Our subscriber’s support transformed their small workshop into a thriving operation, empowering them to share the beauty of Israel with the world.
When co-founders Hanan and Eran were called to reserve duty after October 7, AgroCafe was on the brink of closure. Then, a significant Lev Haolam order arrived, stabilizing their workforce and providing a lifeline. With this support, AgroCafe introduced a new coffee bag design symbolizing growth and resilience. Today, AgroCafe has not only survived but flourished, becoming a hub for soldiers and locals in their community.
In the community of Itamar, Batya Erdstein completed her largest order yet – 15,000 Netilat Yadayim handwashing washing cups. This monumental task led her to purchase a new pottery kiln, bringing her total to four, and to hire local workers in need of employment. “This support has brought blessings beyond measure,” Batya said. “It united my family and community in ways I never imagined.” With our subscriber’s help, Batya’s craft has become a symbol of resilience and faith.
Thanks to Lev Haolam’s steady orders, Tamir Peled moved Beit Hashaked into a larger factory in Dalton, on Israel’s northern border. This expansion allowed him to innovate and create new products, all while supporting his local community. “Knowing how much you love our work motivates us to push boundaries and grow.” Tamir shared.
Located on the southern border with Gaza, Arugot Farm faced immense challenges after October 7. Yet, with Lev Haolam’s support, they managed to sustain their 40 employees, create wellness kits for soldiers, and expand their organic skincare line. “Your help reminded us we are not alone,” Itai Lachman said.
These milestones are a testament to the unwavering spirit of Israel’s pioneers and the profound impact of standing together in support. Every achievement tells a story of resilience, determination, and love for the land.
Standing Strong: The Impact of Our Subscriber’s Support During the War
The events of October 7 brought unprecedented challenges to Israel, deeply affecting nearly half of Lev Haolam’s suppliers. From workforce shortages to disrupted supply chains, these pioneers faced a daunting reality. Yet, with little support, they found ways to endure, rebuild, and thrive.
Here are their stories of resilience:
For Orly Livne, the war brought personal and professional heartbreak. Her nephew, a young IDF soldier, lost his life defending Israel, leaving her family devastated. With her husband also called to the frontlines, Orly faced overwhelming grief and the collapse of her ceramic orders. Lev Haolam stepped in with new orders, providing the lifeline she needed to keep creating. “Every piece I make carries the love and resilience of this land,” she shared, reopening her studio to the community and offering workshops as a form of healing.
Shay Raikin’s family beekeeping business faced devastation as fires near the Lebanese border destroyed several hives. Shay himself was injured while serving in the reserves, leaving him unable to work for weeks. Despite these setbacks, he crafted a special batch of honey from the Golan Heights, made even more precious by the season’s challenges. This honey, shared with Lev Haolam subscribers, is a testament to his determination to keep the ancient art of Israeli beekeeping alive.
In the north, Rimon Winery’s fields became a military zone, with soldiers stationed amidst the vineyards. The community faced evacuations, and production seemed impossible. Yet, with Lev Haolam’s encouragement and support, they continued crafting their pomegranate wine. Each bottle represents the perseverance of the people of Kerem Ben Zimra, who refuse to let fear overshadow their mission to share the flavors of Israel with the world.
Straight From the Heart: Suppliers’ Messages of Gratitude to Our Subscribers
Through our subscriptions, Lev Haolam has become more than a partnership – it’s a lifeline for Israeli artisans. Here are some heartfelt messages from our suppliers expressing the impact our subscribers have made on their lives and businesses:
These heartfelt messages reflect the incredible impact our subscribers have on Israel’s pioneers. Their unwavering support does more than sustain businesses – it builds hope, strengthens communities, and shows these artisans that they are never alone.
Lev Haolam: The Bridge to Israel’s Culture, Roots, and Spirit
In 2024, Lev Haolam’s community of supporters grew and is more vibrant than ever before! Thousands of new subscribers joined our mission, embracing a heartfelt connection to Israel and its inspiring pioneers. Across social media, our family expanded to include 126,000 followers on Facebook and Instagram. These platforms became spaces where we shared producer interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and heartfelt updates from the Holy Land, allowing our global family to feel closer to Israel’s spirit and resilience.
This year also brought unique opportunities to stand with Israel’s soldiers during trying times.
Together, Lev Haolam and our supporters delivered 150 pairs of high-quality socks to Avi’s reserve army unit, ensuring they stayed warm and cared for during their critical service. Additionally, we prepared and sent 5,200 sandwiches to soldiers stationed on the frontlines, offering a tangible reminder of the love and support embracing them.
Through each subscription, the bond between the diaspora and the Holy Land continues to deepen. This journey is about more than products – it’s about building relationships, supporting pioneers, and preserving Israel’s heritage for generations to come. We thank all our subscribers for being part of this incredible mission!
Most Loved Box of 2024: The Promised Land
The Promised Land Box from May stood out as the most loved box of 2024, cherished by our subscribers for its depth of meaning and variety of artisanal treasures. At the heart of this box was a stunning handmade ceramic plate, a collaboration among four talented ceramicists from different parts of Israel – the Judean Hills, Golan Heights, Jordan Valley, and Binyamin region. Each unique piece symbolized the unity and strength of Israel, reflecting the beauty of the land it represents.
Beyond its visual beauty, the box offered a sensory journey through the flavors and scents of Israel. Subscribers savored mango confiture from the Galilee, a product crafted with care by The Well Delicatessen, a boutique family business known for its dedication to quality. Negohot Honey, renowned for its purity, introduced honey-infused skincare products that brought the nourishing essence of Israel straight to our subscribers’ homes. Salted almonds from Avnaim Farm in the Galilee, grown and harvested with love, completed this delightful selection, showcasing the dedication of Israeli pioneers.
For our subscribers, opening it was like opening and revealing a piece of the Holy Land, a reminder of the enduring spirit that ties us all together.
As 2024 draws to an end, we reflect on a year that tested the resilience of Israel’s pioneers and the strength of their communities. Through determination and unwavering hope, these families have continued to preserve the traditions and beauty of the Holy Land.
For those who stand with Israel, Lev Haolam provides a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact. By subscribing to our surprise box, you don’t just receive meaningful, handcrafted treasures – you become part of a mission that uplifts communities, sustains small businesses, and strengthens the bond with Israel.
Our subscription boxes are more than just a gift to yourself; it’s a way to connect deeply with the land and people of Israel.
As we step into 2025, we invite you to join this journey of support, connection, and hope.
Let this be the year you bring the heart of Israel into your home. Subscribe today and discover the joy of making a difference.
