Israel Laughs is dedicated to bringing laughter to Israel’s youngest heroes, to ease the emotional damage done by sirens, rockets, and exploding airborne balloon bouquets specifically targeted to strike kindergartens, schools and homes along the border with Gaza which are war crimes.

My life as a Clown began during the Gulf War, as a volunteer in the IDF Medical Corps, when I was asked to make people laugh in hospitals during scud missile attacks. As Rami Salami, I have since entertained people in 33 countries, always returning to Israel to entertain families with ongoing traumatic stress disorder; who have lived with the threat of terror their entire lives in some of Israel’s most vulnerable and beautiful communities.

In Hebrew, our project is called Misrad HaChiyuch, the Ministry of Smiles, a play on Misrad HaChinuch, the Ministry of Education.

In December, we were able to reach thousands of children in kindergartens and community centers in over 60 communities along the border,  but there are so many more. Israel Laughs is needed now more than ever with the new emotional damage done by the recent escalation and airborne attacks.

Inspired by heartbreaking stories of the ongoing trauma to the children, we want to reach out to all the residents of the south to reassure them that there are people in the world who care about them; pray for their safety and that the quiet they deserve will come and last.

Your support will allow us to do whatever we can. Our goal is to do as many shows as possible to bring relief, hope, and laughter to thousands of brave, resilient Israelis of all ages who deserve our gratitude and admiration. We are thankful for all of the loving friends who encourage us in our mission of Tikun Olam, making the world a better place. My entire life has prepared me to show empathy and make a personal connection with those who need a reason to smile. Please help me do what I do best, making people laugh!

Philip and Yonit