United Hatzalah
United Hatzalah (also spelled Hatzolah) is Israel’s leading volunteer-based EMS network. It is staffed by over 6,000 trained first responders who provide free, life-saving care in minutes. As a uniquely community-driven Jewish ambulance service, United Hatzalah’s rapid-response model has transformed Ambulance Israel into a 24/7 safety net, no matter where you live.
What Does "Hatzalah" Mean?
The Hebrew word “חֲצוֹלָה” (Hatzalah) means “rescue.” Whether you see the United Hatzalah logo on a midcycle or vest, it signals a promise: immediate medical attention from dedicated volunteers.
A New Standard in Israel Emergency Medical Services
- Hatzolah EMS teams arrive in under 90 seconds on average, outpacing standard Israel emergency medical services, thanks to a nationwide network of all-terrain bicycles, ambulances, and e-bikes.
- Volunteers come from every walk of life: teachers, engineers, retirees- united by one goal: saving lives as Israel’s first responders.
- All care is free at the point of service: Is Hatzalah free? Patients never see a bill.
A Global Jewish Emergency Services Community
- United Hatzalah New York brings the same volunteer spirit to Jewish ambulance NY communities, training local EMTs and coordinating cross-continental support.
- Friends of United Hatzalah chapters worldwide – often called Friends of Hatzalah – raise awareness and funds for advanced equipment and expanded training.
- With partners in the Jewish ambulance service sector from London to Buenos Aires, Hatzalah’s network is truly global.
Why Support United Hatzalah?
How to Give: Hatzalah Donate Options
United Hatzalah makes it simple to back Israel’s volunteers with life-saving tools or direct funding:
- Buy Gear for Rescue Teams: Choose from our Rescue Team Store -medical kits, advanced EMS equipment, protective gear – and equip first responders on the front lines. Every product you order ships directly to our volunteers in Israel. Purchase Rescue Team Supplies ›
- Donate Funds: Provide flexible financial support—one-time or recurring—to underwrite training, dispatch technology, and rapid-response ambucycles across Israel. Your Hatzalah donation keeps our 24/7 emergency network on call. Make a Financial Gift ›
Whether you’re buying rescue gear or giving money, your contribution ensures Israel emergency medical services reach every call—no matter the hour or location.
Your Impact as Friends of Hatzalah
By contributing today, you stand with Israel’s heroes – ordinary people who become Israel’s first responders the moment duty calls. Whether you’re asking, “What does Hatzolah mean?” for the first time or you’re a long-time Hatzalah ems supporter, your gift ensures that every siren cry is met with expert care.
Stand with United Hatzalah – because every second counts.