Why we opened this campaign
My name is Ayala (Elena) Starchenko, and I am 35 years old. I live in Jerusalem and am reaching out for help during a very difficult period in my life.
I made aliyah from Belarus on June 11, 2025. After arriving in Israel, I enrolled in a midrasha, where I studied for three months. I am Jewish through my mother, and it was very important to me to live specifically in Jerusalem—a city that I love with all my heart and consider my home.
Unfortunately, I am currently facing serious health problems. My chronic mental health condition—schizophrenia—has worsened. At the moment, I am unable to work and am receiving treatment. Together with my psychiatrist, we are trying to find the most effective therapy so that my condition can stabilize and I can return to a full and independent life.
I truly want to recover, find a job, and become fully self-sufficient again. Despite my illness, I enjoy physical activity, walking, and studying Judaism. I sincerely hope that I will be able to lead an active and fulfilling life again.
Right now, I urgently need help. At the beginning of August, I need to pay my rent, municipal property tax, and National Insurance contributions, as well as purchase essential medication and complete the prescribed course of treatment. Unfortunately, I am currently unable to cover these expenses on my own.
I am not married and do not have children. My mother is a pensioner who lives in Belarus and is unable to provide me with financial support.
Any support will help me keep my home in Jerusalem, continue my treatment, and get through this difficult period. I sincerely hope that once my condition stabilizes, I will be able to return to work, support myself, and continue building my life in Israel.
Should you have the opportunity to support me with a donation or allocate your maaser to help me, I would be deeply grateful.
Thank you to everyone who responds and helps me remain in Jerusalem and continue my journey toward recovery.
