VOR42-Guest: Natalie Sopinsky - Voice of Reason

Natalie Sopinsky, representing Hasala of Judea and Samaria, discussed her background, her move to Israel, and the work of her organization in providing emergency medical services in Judea and Samaria. She highlighted the challenges and realities of living in the region, including security concerns and the importance of community support. She also addressed the differences between her organization and other Hatsala groups, emphasizing their focus on Judea and Samaria and their collaboration with Magen David Adom (MDA).


Natalie shared her personal journey from growing up in a conservative Jewish family in Delaware to becoming a religious settler in Judea. She recounted her initial reluctance to live beyond the Green Line and how her perspective changed over time. She emphasized the strong support from the American Jewish and evangelical communities, which she feels deeply in Israel.


She explained that Hatzalah Judea and Samaria was formed due to the lack of adequate medical response in the region following the Six-Day War in 1967. The organization provides fast response times with local rescuers who live in the communities they serve. There are 600,000 Jews living among two million Arabs in the 150 communities they serve.


Natalie detailed the security threats faced by residents, including rock-throwing attacks, shootings, and explosive devices. In 2024 alone, there were 3,668 rock-throwing attacks, 179 shootings, and 526 explosive devices incidents. She also clarified the conditions under which citizens are permitted to carry personal weapons in Israel, noting that residents of Judea and Samaria fall under this category.


She addressed the challenges of funding and the specific needs of the organization, such as helmets and vests for medics. She also mentioned a project to equip families on farms in the hilltops with medical bags, each costing $2,000. Natalie expressed her willingness to build relationships with supporters and invited them to visit Israel to see the work firsthand. She also suggested collaborating with Yair Levy for fundraising events.


Natalie emphasized the importance of prayer and remembering God in daily life. She expressed gratitude for the support from friends and communities who care about Israel and are willing to help. She also highlighted the power of social media in raising awareness and support for their cause. The organization's website is hatsala.org.il. 

Categories: Lifestyle

Starring: Dave Dias