One Woman’s Mission to Support the Orphans of October 7, 2023. Interview With Marlene Kolangi, Founder of Israel Orphans 10/7 - Alan Skorski Reports

In the wake of the October 7, 2023 massacre in Israel, countless individuals around the world searched for ways to respond. For Marlene Kolangi, a New York-based fashion designer and entrepreneur, the answer was clear: dedicate her life to helping the children left behind. Kolangi, founder of the successful bridal and modest fashion brand Kaituz in Queens, is widely known in the modest fashion and wig communities for her custom designs that empower women to feel beautiful and confident. But after October 7, her professional focus took a dramatic turn. Deeply shaken by the terrorist attacks and the devastating toll on Israeli families, Kolangi founded Israel Orphans of 10/7, an organization devoted exclusively to supporting children who lost one or both parents in the massacre and subsequent war. Appearing on Episode 47 of the Alan Skorski Reports podcast, Kolangi shared how the tragedy transformed her life and mission. “I couldn’t just sit back,” she explained. “These children lost everything in a single day. They need more than sympathy — they need stability, support, and a future.” Her organization provides both immediate and long-term assistance, including: Emergency financial aid for basic needs Long-term savings accounts for each orphan Funding for life milestones such as bar and bat mitzvahs, education, and weddings Emotional care services, including play therapy and personalized support Kolangi emphasized that her work goes beyond writing checks. She personally travels to Israel, meeting families face-to-face, listening to their stories, and delivering assistance directly — whether through funds, gift cards, clothing, or ongoing personal relationships. “The most important thing is dignity,” she said. “These children should not feel forgotten. They should feel embraced by the entire Jewish people.” A single mother herself, Kolangi has been profiled in several Jewish media outlets, including Arutz Sheva, The Jewish Link, and VINnews, where she has been described as a “superhero” for transforming her business platform into a vehicle for communal healing. She also speaks at Jewish inspirational gatherings and communal events, including Project Inspire, where she encourages others to turn pain into purpose. According to Kolangi, the mission is long-term. While global attention may shift, the needs of October 7’s youngest victims remain. “This is not a six-month project,” she noted. “These children will grow up with this loss. We are committed to walking with them for years — through school, through milestones, through life.” Supporters can learn more or contribute to Israel Orphans of 10/7 through its fundraising platform, often linked via CauseMatch under the Healing Heroes campaign. As the Jewish world continues to grapple with the aftermath of October 7, Kolangi’s work stands as a powerful example of grassroots leadership — channeling heartbreak into hope, and tragedy into tangible action for Israel’s most vulnerable. -VIN News Donations can be made through: https://causematch.com/healingheroes Contact the Organization: info@israelorphansof10seven.org Subscribe to Alan Skorski Reports: www.youtube.com/@AlanSkorskiReports Alan Skorski Reports 12FEB2026 - PODCAST