Dear Firstrust Family,

During pivotal moments in our history, I've felt compelled to share my perspective with you. The recent events unfolding in Israel represent one such moment.

Today, I write to you not only as the Executive Chairman and Owner of Firstrust Bank, but also as a representative of a Jewish family that has long cherished the values of freedom and justice.  

I have said for a very long time that a strong and independent Israel makes every Jewish person, along with every freedom loving person in the World, a safer place to live. The recent attacks on Israel by Hamas are a direct affront to that long standing principle.

What Hamas has done is unspeakable and savage. As of today, more than 1,300 Israelis have been killed, including at least 220 soldiers, 22 US citizens, with over 3,300 wounded, many seriously.  And it’s estimated that 150 Israelis are being held hostage in Gaza.

The cowardly sneak attacks against innocent children, women, the aged and infirm have deeply affected many, especially some of our own employees who have families living and often, fighting in Israel.

Their personal stories, anxieties, and fears bring the situation even closer to our hearts. We stand with them, sharing their worries and praying for the safety of their loved ones.

First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers go out to all the innocent victims of these attacks, their families, and all Israelis who are living in fear and uncertainty. We firmly denounce the acts of terror and violence, and the horrors they inflict upon the Israeli people.

These attacks are not just assaults on a nation or its borders, but on the very ideals that Israel, and its democratic partner, the United States stand for: democracy, tolerance, and independence.

The history of the Jewish people is one marked by resilience, survival, and an unyielding commitment to justice. The State of Israel stands as a testament to these values, and as staunch supporters of a free and independent Israel, we express our unwavering solidarity.

Last year I was honored with The Good Fight Award, an honor given by the Anti-Defamation League, recognizing our commitment to combating anti-Semitism, and hate of all kinds, as well as promoting understanding and tolerance.

The name of that award, "The Good Fight," resonates profoundly with our present circumstances. Just as we have tirelessly fought against anti-Semitism, and hate in all its forms, it is now imperative for all of us to stand by Israel in its fight for its homeland and for peace. The Good Fight must continue, and we must be do our part.

In response, you should know that the Green Family Foundation has already given a substantial gift to the Peace efforts to provide equipment, medical supplies, and shelter to protect Israeli citizens as well as money for weapons to protect the population and mete out justice to these savages.

As an organization, Firstrust Bank has also bought Israel Bonds and financed over time, for the benefit of our customers who support Israel, more than $100 Million of Israel Bonds.

I hope that you are proud to be associated with organization that does so much to promote the safety and security of a country that helps keep freedom loving people a little safer.

Furthermore, while our hearts and thoughts may be with Israel, we must also remain vigilant at home. Anti-Semitism has no borders, and we need to be proactive in ensuring that no collateral damage comes to the Jewish community members here. Our fight against prejudice and hate is not confined to any region; and we each have a role to play.

Firstrust has always stood for cultivating prosperity for the communities we serve. In these trying times, it's essential that we redouble our efforts to promote security, peace, understanding, and collaboration in our communities.

As we denounce the atrocities in Israel, let us come together as a community, and continue to Fight the Good Fight, and make a stand against hate in all its forms.

While this is in no way a requirement or directive, for those of you who might be moved to make a contribution yourselves, or know of others who might, we are coordinating with the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, where I serve on the Executive Board, to donate to the same organization that our Foundation gave to, Philly Stands With Israel Fund, either through their website here or at one of our Branches.

With deepest appreciation and gratitude.

Richard J. Green
Firstrust Bank, Executive Chairman and Owner

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