Mike Bloomberg to Donate Nearly $44 Million to Magen David Adom

NEW YORK (VINnews) — Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is donating nearly $44 million to Magen David Adom, as part of a matching campaign.

Bloomberg conveyed to The New York Times that he will match contributions he obtained through an email appeal for American Friends of Magen David Adom, for a nearly $88 million donation, the largest in its history.

“America has always been a friend to Israel and I am encouraged that so many of us are stepping up to help our ally during these challenging times,” Bloomberg said. “It is important to show the world that we are united in our condemnation of Hamas and committed to protecting the health and safety of all Israelis.”

Bloomberg sent out the appeal on Oct. 9, saying that he would match contributions to MDA, through Oct. 20 to support its “lifesaving work.” Bloomberg is donating $44 million, matching the funds from tens of thousands of other donors to provide $88 million.

The Times reported that Catherine Reed, chief executive of American Friends of MDA, said that nearly 34,000 donors contributed. She indicated that the donations will go toward ambulances and medical equipment in addition to protective equipment for emergency responders.