To everyone that contributed,

We are beyond grateful to share that, thanks to your generosity, we have not only reached our goal of $3,800, but with the incredible support of an anonymous student donor, we have now surpassed over $5,000!

Your kindness and commitment to our community have made this possible. The impact of your contribution will be felt throughout the year, helping Degel continue to enrich the Jewish experience at UMass Amherst through meaningful programs, events, and initiatives.

We honestly can’t believe we are sending out this message not even TWO days into our fundraising effort. We are truly blown away by what can be achieved through generosity and how this community came together. 

This fundraiser is extra special because of our partnership with Hillel.

Did you know that each year, UMass Hillel invests more than $150,000 per year to help support observant Jewish life at UMass Amherst? In addition to helping fund many of Degel’s immediate programming needs, our Hillel is instrumental in ensuring that observant Jewish student needs are met and that we have access to vital resources including: 

- Access to free kosher meals throughout Shabbat for our entire community (most of us know that this is currently the only formal UMass Kosher Dining option on Shabbat!)

- The Leicht Family!! The mentorship, learning, and support we receive through the JLIC program is made possible through a special initiative funded by UMass Hillel, the OU and generous philanthropy! 

- A comprehensive 22-mile Eruv (built in 2021)

- Countless other programs that help support our vibrant, caring, pluralistic community for all Jewish students on campus.

Really, thank you. All of us at the Degel student board wish we could give every single one of you a heartfelt hug.

Sincerely,

Mikael, Leah, Adinah, and Michal