In the late 2000’s, PizzaIDF also ran an initiative for US soldiers serving in the Gulf. More than 10,000 pizza pies were sent to US servicemen during the two-year initiative; it’s a testament to the generosity and support that PizzaIDF encourages.
During the internet’s younger days in the mid-nineties, Menachem Kuchar began a pioneering journey that would eventually become PizzaIDF.
His initial work was not about sending pizzas to IDF soldiers but to create a digital platform promoting Israel to the world.This platform introduced Israeli artisans and musicians to a wider global audience, featured producers of Judaica and jewelry from the homeland, with a unique service of delivering “Mishloach Manot” to families in Israel.
When Menachem added the option to send Mishloach Manot to an Israeli soldier, his cause took a turn; from then, Jewish and Israel supporters worldwide had a chance to celebrate Purim alongside our soldiers in the homeland. The idea was simple yet profound, and his own words: “It is only because they are out there instead of at home, that we here in Israel can celebrate.”.
The success of the Shalach Manot project led to a surge in interest in 2002, with supporters eagerly showing support for the soldiers and boosting their morale beyond Purim. Menachem considered various food items including pizza but was uncertain about how to do it.
Until a tragic attack on the Park Hotel in Natanya in 2002, which triggered the IDF to launch Operation: Protective Shield. This unfortunate event gave Menachem clarity; the opportunity to provide tangible support to the soldiers. PizzaIDF, in its current form, was born.
Response from both the soldiers and donors towards PizzaIDF was overwhelming; thousands of pizza orders poured in from all the world to active-duty soldiers serving across the country. Soldiers were not just delighted to receive the pizzas and were also deeply touched by these encouraging messages and formed a bond between donor and recipient.
Over the years, PizzaIDF expanded its menu to include certain food items relevant to the Jewish Festival Calendar, which included ice cream for summer, donuts for Hanukkah, Care Packages for Rosh Hashanah, and what started it all, Mishloach Manot for Purim. These are sent to soldiers accompanied by freshly baked pizzas if the situation (or holiday) allows.
In the late 2000’s, PizzaIDF also ran an initiative for US soldiers serving in the Gulf. More than 10,000 pizza pies were sent to US servicemen during the two-year initiative; it’s a testament to the generosity and support that PizzaIDF encourages.
Menachem handed over the reins of PizzaIDF to his son, Elisha, and his accomplished wife, Tanya. Elisha, an accomplished entrepreneur in his own right has been building medical centers in East Africa and an IDF reservist himself. Tanya, a successful lawyer and volunteer medic with a heart for volunteering. Together, they have brought PizzaIDF to a whole new level by expanding its reach and donor base.
Reflecting on Memorial Day which our American friends commemorated yesterday, we are reminded of the huge sacrifices made by these brave heroes. We take pride in giving and supporting the men and women who put themselves at the service of others. In the spirit of Semper Fi and the motto of one of the IDF's units, “He Who Dares, Wins”, we continuously stand with our soldiers, offering them a slice of comfort and support in their times of service.
PizzaIDF is more than just a service; it’s a symbol of solidarity with IDF soldiers. It’s a testament to the loving power of a community. PizzaIDF reminds us that our soldiers are never alone; that their paths are lit by the warmth of our love and support. And that a slice of freshly baked pizza shall always be there to make their day feel a little extra special.
How can you just donate a little at a time just because my love from Texas you need to step in some times to see me Love you IDF thankful for all you do for me.Sincerely, Rebecca Mireles ❤️