Son of Widowed Mother of Nine Appeals for Public Aid to Settle Debts

Yishai Cohen, the 23-year-old son of a widowed mother of nine, is appealing to the public for financial assistance to help his mother, Dakala, manage approximately one million shekels in debts left by his late father, Avihu Cohen. Avihu, a diligent building contractor and described as a charitable man, passed away suddenly two and a half years ago, leaving Dakala to raise their nine children alone, the youngest not yet a year old. Since his death, the family has lost their primary breadwinner, and Dakala has struggled to manage the household and the mounting debts, which have grown to about one million shekels. The family is now facing enforcement proceedings, with a real fear of losing their home.

Yishai described his mother's relentless efforts, stating she works tirelessly for her children without rest. He expressed his deep concern for her well-being, emphasizing that his appeal is not for himself but for his younger siblings to have a supportive mother, and for his mother to finally find some peace and care for herself. The significant financial burden, including interest and pressure from tax authorities and the bank, is taking a severe toll.

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched on the platform "Tzedakah" (Charity) to help settle the debts and provide the family with a stable future. Rabbi Yigal Cohen has joined the call for public support, urging people not to abandon the family. To date, over 230,000 shekels have been raised, but a substantial amount remains to be collected to reach the one million shekel goal. Organizers of the campaign highlighted that while the father cannot be brought back, his family's home and future can still be saved. Yishai concluded his plea by invoking the "God of Israel" and asking for help to relieve his mother of her debts and ensure a better life for his younger siblings.