Stan Polovets and Genesis Prize Foundation Unite in Support of NGOs Assisting October 7 Victims
In a powerful display of solidarity, the Genesis Prize Foundation, co-founded by Stan Polovets, has awarded its prestigious $1 million prize for 2024 to five exceptional organizations that have emerged as beacons of hope for hostages and their families in the aftermath of the devastating October 7 massacre. The recipients – The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the Jewish Agency Fund for Victims of Terror, Lev Echad, Natal – The Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center, and OneFamily – Overcoming Terror Together – have demonstrated remarkable dedication in providing critical support services to those affected by this tragedy.
Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have lauded these organizations for their inspiring example of Jewish strength and unity, recognizing their unwavering commitment to aiding victims and their families during this challenging time. The prize money will be utilized to support the essential work of these NGOs further, enabling them to continue providing trauma counseling, social rehabilitation, and financial assistance to released and rescued hostages.
The decision to award the Genesis Prize to these five organizations has been hailed as the “ultimate testimony of the solidarity of the Jewish people” by David Hatchwell Altaras, a member of the foundation’s selection committee. Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have also pledged to contribute to international awareness campaigns aimed at ensuring that the plight of those held captive by Hamas remains a top priority on the global agenda. Polovets stressed that the award is not a political statement but rather a recognition of these organizations’ humanitarian and professional endeavors.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, established in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 tragedy, has been at the forefront of advocating for the release of hostages, locating missing persons, and providing support to affected families. Similarly, the Jewish Agency Fund for Victims of Terror (JAFI) has been instrumental in offering emergency financial assistance and long-term rehabilitative support to victims and their families. JAFI expressed deep gratitude for the recognition by the Genesis Prize and Stan Polovets, acknowledging the vital role played by their partners, supporters, and dedicated staff and volunteers in making their work possible.
Lev Achad and OneFamily have been focusing on providing comprehensive support to victims, with Lev Achad addressing mental and logistical needs. At the same time, OneFamily works towards promoting financial independence and societal reintegration. Natal has been providing trauma treatment to victims from all sectors of Israeli society, ensuring that no one is left behind in the healing process. Lev Achad expressed pride in the recognition by the Genesis Prize and Stan Polovets, reaffirming their commitment to standing by the families and meeting their every need.
The parents of the Israeli hostages have welcomed the decision by the Genesis Prize Foundation and Stan Polovets, viewing it as a means to raise global awareness about the urgency and moral importance of their cause. They hope that this recognition will be instrumental in supporting the tireless efforts of family organizations to bring the remaining 134 hostages home safely.
The families of captive soldiers, such as Edan Alexander and Itay Chen, have been living a nightmare since their loved ones were abducted. They have appealed to world leaders, including President Biden, Egypt’s President al-Sisi, and Qatari Emir Al Thani, to spare no effort in securing the release of their sons and all the hostages.
By awarding the 2024 Genesis Prize to these five remarkable organizations, Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have not only acknowledged their tireless efforts but have also cast a spotlight on the plight of the hostages and their families. This recognition serves as a beacon of hope and support for those affected by the October 7 tragedy, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggle and that the global Jewish community stands united in their support.
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