LOOM FOR LIFE

No one is ever too young to make a positive impact in our community.

Empowered by the belief that age is no barrier to making a difference, I walked in to my 7-year-old daughter's room on October 14, suggesting, "Let’s raise money for Israel." Realising the need for a village, we summoned her friends, who enthusiastically joined in. What transpired was truly magical as a modest weekend project evolved into something greater.

The "loom band" embodies a single rubber circle, evolving from the circle of life into a bracelet when hand-linked. This concept empowered kids to create and sell bracelets, providing a meaningful channel for those wanting to support Israel. It engaged the next generation in fundraising, highlighting the impact of collective efforts. Amidst orders flooding in, laughter and new skills learned, “Loom for Life” emerged.

Proudly, the kids raised over $8,170 by selling 1,000+ handmade loom bracelets, contributing 100% of the funds to Magen David Adom, United Israel Appeal, Arava Project, and CSG for their respective causes.

Building on the success, another initiative, "Loom for Light," was launched. During a special 8-day event over Chanukah, The Victorian Jewish community joined forces, connecting over 11,000 blue and white loom bands into 110 one-meter looms. Utilising all the looms, a magnificent mural for peace will be curated.

The mural's objective is to secure an extra $18,000 for WIZO Victoria, allocating 100% of the funds to construct a new sensory motor room in an Israeli daycare center. This will provide aid and support to children navigating trauma, addressing a critical need amid the current situation in Israel.

We also partnered with the talented, Zac Chester who is an amazing individual with down syndrome in our community, Zac joined our Loom for Life initiative, bringing his artistic flair to the table. Despite being unable to participate in looming activities, Zac alongside his art therapist Shoshi Jacobs, painted a breathtaking masterpiece titled "BLUE DOVE," Praying for Peace - capturing the essence of connectedness, compassion, calm, and community - the very heart of Loom for Life. Zac then came to me with a brilliant idea to turn their artwork into LIMITED EDITION of 166 packs of premium greeting cards. We sold out in under 4 days, raising over $2,700.

In addition, our WIZO “Get a Taste of Purim” project was a tremendous success. We sold over 144 packs, raising over $7,000 for the WIZO motor sensory and safe room in a WIZO daycare centre. By purchasing our hamantashen sampler boxes, community members not only indulged in delicious hamantashen but also directly supported local bakers in our community. With the help of dozens of volunteers, we delivered over 1,200 hamantashen right to people’s homes, spreading joy and sweetness this Purim season.

Naming Rights are now available for for the WIZO daycare centre, offering a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in the sensory room. A personalised plaque will commemorate your contribution, forever symbolising your dedication to supporting children in need. Expressions of interest are now open for both artworks.

To support the next generation in reaching their goal, we welcome you to contribute any Chai ($18) denomination to the mural OR you have the option to own an entire loom row for $180. The search for a special home for the mural is underway, with all contributors of $180+ set to be acknowledged.

Your generosity is appreciated. Now is the moment to extend warmth to Israel and Melbourne, one loom band at a time. Am’Yisrael Chai 💙

Yours in strength,
Talya and the Loom for Life team

Note: Contributions are eligible for full tax deduction.

Follow @kidsloomforlife on Instagram for updates. If you're interested in a detailed understanding of the project or wish to get involved, please contact me.