Donations to Hatzola have hit half-a-million pounds over the course of the morning in the wake of last night’s arson attack in Golders Green.
Four ambulances were set ablaze in what police are now investigating as an “antisemitic hate crime”.
Fundraising appeals have been launched to help the service recover from the damage caused.
Hatzola ambulances serve the entire area’s community – Jewish and non Jewish alike – and provide critical, lifesaving care without charge, while easing the burden on the NHS.
Hatzola writes on its website: “To target [the ambulances] is not only an act of violence, but an attack on the very values of compassion and humanity that bind our community together.
“We are launching an urgent appeal to rebuild what has been lost - we cannot to afford to let our life-saving work be put on pause. We need immediate support so we can source: new ambulances, strengthening security, equipping the teams, restocking and ensuring we can continue to respond safely and effectively in every emergency.”
As of 12pm on Monday, the Charity Extra fundraising page has raised over £430,000, largely helped by a £200,000 donation from the Ronson Foundation.
An additional £73,000 has been donated via a GoFundMe page, bringing the total to over £500,000.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has since confirmed that the government will replace the ambulances without charge to the community or Hatzola.
“The Jewish community should not be left footing the bill for this appalling attack on a brilliant ambulance service,” he said.
“Those responsible for this attack must know that the Jewish community will not face up to this hatred alone. The whole country will stand with them.”
To donate to Hatzola, you can click here to donate directly. Alternatively, click here or here to donate via the fundraisers. To donate to CST, you can click here.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “An investigation has been launched after four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service were set on fire in Golders Green.
“Officers remain on scene and the arson attack is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
"Nearby houses have been evacuated as a precaution and road closures remain in place.
"We are aware of reports of explosions - this is believed to be linked to gas cannisters onboard the ambulances.”
Superintendent Sarah Jackson, who leads policing in the local area, added: “We know this incident will cause a great deal of community concern and officers remain on scene to carry out urgent enquiries. We are in the process of examining CCTV and are aware of online footage. We believe we are looking for three suspects at this early stage.
“There have been no arrests yet, and we would urge anyone with information to please contact us as soon as possible - you can do so anonymously if you wish.
“We will be engaging with faith leaders and carrying out additional patrols in the local area as we continue our investigation to provide reassurance and a highly visible presence.”
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