You have provided the answer to a very big need and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Rising antisemitism in the U.S. makes Israelis afraid to travel here. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), U.S. antisemitic incidents skyrocketed 360% in the aftermath of the October 7th attack on Israel. The ADL recorded over 10,000 antisemitic incidents in the U.S. in the year following the attack. This is the highest number of antisemitic incidents ever recorded in a one-year period.
Israelis need an escape from their country and a break from the war, but they don’t know where they can safely travel. Consequently, it is no surprise that Israelis love our Planet Zula network, because we provide safe places all around the world for them to stay for free with Christians who love them.
Recently, an Israeli friend messaged Carissa to thank YOU for your part in building this hospitality network: “Carissa, I want to give a big shout out to this ministry. Tomorrow, we will be hosted by one of the hosts on the platform. I told you how much I appreciate this as an Israeli. I am so paranoid about going to hotels and motels with all the [growing antisemitism]… The Planet Zula platform allows our family to travel and have peace that we are safe. I’ve been to a hotel before where the people knew we were Israelis and it was unpleasant.
We are so blessed by the Planet Zula program. We’ve both hosted and been hosted many times before, and for us, it’s always been more than just free accommodation — it’s a way to share stories, make new friends, and build relationships that last for years.
As Israelis and Jews, especially after the October 7th terror attack and the rising antisemitism around the world, Planet Zula’s wonderful and kind hosts give us peace of mind — allowing us to travel freely, speak Hebrew, and proudly express our Jewish and Israeli identity without fear.
Additionally, my husband lost his job due to the war in the Middle East, which placed us under financial stress. Traveling with Planet Zula has enabled us to continue enjoying God’s creation, explore new places, and meet incredible people — all without the heavy burden of financial strain.
Thank you to the Planet Zula developers, hosts, and everyone who makes this community possible.”
It is heartbreaking to hear of the evil acts being committed against Israelis and Jewish people, but this provides a huge opportunity to meet a very real need for love and hospitality. Thank you for every prayer you have prayed and every donation you have given. This ministry truly would not be possible without your support.
Love,
BJ, Carissa, Ari and Aviya