Local Jewish News

United Hatzalah has created the world’s first-responder PsychoTrauma and Crisis Response Unit.  This unit, comprised of mental health professionals, many of whom are also EMTs, are deployed to provide psychological first-aid to those with “emotional wounds.”  When word came of the epic flood that would wreak havoc on Houston and SE Texas, United Hatzalah sprang into action and immediately sent 5 of their team members, including the founder of the division, Miriam Ballin, who is a Houston native.

Houston’s mayor let United Hatzalah know that they had sufficient search and rescue assistance, but the talents of the PsychoTrauma unit would be of great help in Houston and the surrounding areas.  Miriam and her team flew into Dallas, met up with one of our board members, and loaded two SUV’s with water and a multitude of necessities…and goodies for the young children they were to meet.  They visited sick children at the Dallas Children’s Hospital and gave comfort to those who had been moved there from Houston.  Once in Houston they began their work in conjunction with the Federation’s logistics team.

Cari Margulis Immerman, Regional Director for United Hatzalah, whose region includes Texas, noted “this is a most unique team and they are providing vital services, services not available from any others, to those whose lives have been rocked by this epic flood.  They are working with all in the community, including attending to other first responders – FEMA workers, National Guard members and others who are away from their homes, exhausted from their work, and mentally challenged by all they’ve seen.  And, this week, with waters receded, they will be focusing much attention on  the hard hit Jewish communities.”  As Miriam Ballin said, “you think you understand the level of devastation and then I come to my old neighborhood and every home is filled with 3-4 feet of water.  Our true work begins now as everyone shifts from survival model to coping with the realities of what they’ve lost and what’s in store to get back to everyday life.”

You can help too! Click below to learn about options on how to donate to the mission. 100% of all donations will support the important work of the United Hatzalah mission to help the people of Houston.

Donate now to help the people of Houston

Ms. Immerman also noted that on September 16th, she and Eli Beer, United Hatzalah’s founder and leader, will be speaking at Green Road Synagogue.  For more information on United Hatzalah, the PsychoTrauma Unit, and the upcoming visit to Cleveland by Eli Beer, call 216 544 3010 or Cari@israelrescue.org