Yad L'Achim, which provides for the needs of hundreds of survivors of Arab villages and their children, has completed its preparations for the winter months. Hundreds of coupons for the purchase of warm clothes are being distributed this week to families, in addition to heaters and other aids.

"The winter months are particularly difficult for families that are struggling financially," explained a senior Yad L'Achim official. "Most survivor families aren't managing to earn high, steady wages, and have difficulty purchasing appropriate clothing or heating implements to help them get through the rainy days and cold nights."

As it does every year, Yad L'Achim is comin to the assistance of survivor families and purchasing coupons worth tens of thousands of shekels, as well as heaters. Families that are growing stronger in their observance of Torah and mitzvos are also receiving hot plates and hot-water urns for use on Shabbos.

"It is our moral obligation to take care of survivors who are returning now to the embrace of the Jewish people, that they have heat and can enjoy a pleasant winter," the official said.