Ten prominent law firms in Israel successfully generated 172,000 NIS (approximately $57,000) to provide hot meals for those impacted in northern Israel. These communities are still on the path to recovery following the significant hardships incurred during the war with Hezbollah.
Charity Tournament for a Cause
The funds were raised during the fifth annual DLA Piper Israel Charity Basketball Tournament, which took place at the Hashalom Sports Center in Tel Aviv. This event was conducted in collaboration with Leket Israel, the national food bank of the country, ensuring that the proceeds directly support those in need.
The tournament witnessed a convergence of various legal professionals who temporarily swapped their suits for basketball jerseys. By uniting on the court, these lawyers demonstrated their commitment to assisting families striving to re-establish their lives amid ongoing challenges.
Jeremy Lustman, managing partner of DLA Piper Israel, underscored the critical situation in the northern region. He stated, “The north absorbed more than its share. Long after the headlines fade, families there are still working to rebuild.” He further emphasized that providing a hot meal daily constitutes a tangible form of support that can significantly help these families.
Addressing Continuous Needs in Northern Israel
The recent fundraising focus reflects the ongoing struggles of residents in northern Israel, especially those who were compelled to leave their homes due to the unrest from Hezbollah’s attacks, which accelerated after October 2023. While many have returned, the community continues to grapple with economic instability and social difficulties.
Leket Israel’s hot meals program plays a vital role by offering nutritious, prepared meals to individuals in need while tackling the food waste issue through meal rescues. Gidi Kroch, CEO of Leket Israel, noted, “Food rescue is not charity; it serves as national infrastructure.” He added that each shekel contributed translates into a hot, nutritious meal, simultaneously preventing good food from being wasted.
Founded in 2003 by Joseph Gitler, Leket Israel distributes rescued food through a network of over 360 nonprofit organizations, reaching approximately 470,000 people in need weekly. In 2025 alone, the organization rescued over 2.24 million cooked meals and more than 32 million servings of fruits and vegetables.
Celebrating Community and Sport
On the basketball court, Meitar Law Firm claimed the championship after a decisive victory against Arnon, Tadmor-Levy in the tournament’s final match. Meitar attorney Orpaz Azoulay was honored as the tournament’s most valuable player, showcasing not just teamwork but also the spirit of giving back to the community.
The participating firms included some of the most prominent names in Israeli law, such as Amit, Pollak, Matalon & Co., Gornitzky, and Herzog Fox & Neeman, among others. The event, organized by DLA Piper Israel, a leading international law firm, has raised over 670,000 NIS (approximately $220,000) for various charitable causes over the past five years, highlighting the collective commitment of the legal community to social responsibility and community support.
Through efforts like this tournament, not only are critical funds raised to assist those in need, but a sense of camaraderie and purpose is also fostered among legal professionals, reinforcing the importance of community support in times of adversity.