In Loving Memory of Miriam Isserow Z”L
This Pesach, help survivors of abuse reclaim their voices, their dignity, and their freedom
FREEDOM ISN’T JUST A STORY
Why Survivors Turn to ZA’AKAH
“I literally could not have filed a lawsuit without the help of ZA’AKAH. Ariella and Asher helped me for about a year before I was able to file. Not only did they give me legal recommendations and referrals, they also were, and constantly are, emotional support for me spending countless hours helping me. This process has been extremely difficult, and it is their support that is helping me move forward.”
“When I did not have any idea who to turn to or what my next steps could possibly be, I got referred to call ZA’AKAH. Asher spoke with me with compassion and understanding of the complex parts of my experience. He helped me understand if legal action was appropriate, and what the potential impact of pursuing it might be. I’m very grateful to have benefited from his insight. In addition, I have reached out for support on the hotline and received a loving, listening ear at a challenging time. Thank you to ZA’AKAH and all the work you do for us survivors. While most of my experiences as a survivor of abuse within my orthodox family have been met with disbelief, belittling, and ignorance, every encounter I’ve had with ZA’AKAH has been validating, empowering and positive. ”
“Your Facebook page and podcast helps me stay updated and understand what amount of power institutions have to control safety for community members. Lots of shuls and schools I know are grappling with safety in public now and ZA’AKAH is helping me understand the difference between doing that well and poorly. It brings public accountability to these organizations. ”
“You’ve had done everything for me. I am so grateful to you and thankful to you for standing up for me. You gave me my freedom back, you gave me my strength back. I finally have a voice to tell my story. And for that I am forever grateful.”
“ZA’AKAH has been very helpful and supportive from the beginning for myself and family. It was a safe place from the start when many chose not to believe or support me. The legal system is extremely difficult to understand and ZA’AKAH was there to patiently explain the steps involved and helped me navigate the process. The emotional support was incredible, as well, to help me process what happened so that I could stay strong for my family and carry on. I have tremendous gratitude to ZA’AKAH and I wish them continued strength on their important mission that is so desperately needed.”
ZA’AKAH’s Impact by the Numbers
The Warmline That’s Always There For You
Shabbos and Yom Tov can be especially painful for survivors, and those struggling with mental health.
Family gatherings, community pressure, and memories of trauma can make Shabbos and Yom Tov incredibly difficult. For those who are isolated due to their health, or because of abuse-related alienation from their families, the feeling of being separated from family and community during a time of coming together can be very painful.
That’s why ZA’AKAH operates a Shabbos and Yom Tov Mental Health Peer Support Warmline, providing compassionate support when other services are unavailable. Our volunteers understand what Shabbos and Yom Tov are like and are sensitive to the specific challenges faced by those who are experiencing difficulty without any need for them to take time and energy explaining to someone unfamiliar.
Every call answered is a reminder to someone in pain:
You are not alone.
How Your Gift Helps
Your support allows ZA’AKAH to continue life-saving work in the community.
Your donation helps provide:
• Survivor advocacy and case support
• Mental health and material resource referrals
• Legal referrals and guidance
• Mental health warmline services on Shabbos and Yom Tov
• Community education and awareness
• Resources that empower survivors to seek justice
• Communal accountability for abuse prevention and response
The need unfortunately continues to grow.
And with your help, ZA’AKAH will continue to stand with every survivor who reaches out.
For every survivor who reaches out, many more are still suffering in silence.
But change is happening.
Survivors are finding their power.
Communities are beginning to listen.
With your help, ZA’AKAH will continue fighting for justice, safety, and healing.
In Memory of Miriam Isserow Z”L
April 7, 1962 – April 15, 2022
This annual Pesach campaign is dedicated to the memory of Miriam Isserow Z”L, a passionate advocate for survivors and a beloved supporter of ZA’AKAH.
Miriam believed in ZA’AKAH’s mission and gave so much of her time to help us become what we are today.
Miriam believed deeply that survivors deserved to be heard, supported, and protected.
Her compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication helped shape the work ZA’AKAH continues today.
Her yahrzeit falls on Erev Pesach, making this campaign especially meaningful.
May her memory continue to inspire us to stand with survivors and pursue justice.
May her memory be a blessing.