Campaign progress
Hundreds of donkeys in Israel still face daily violence and neglect.
Please help us free up space and budget to help those left behind.
Our goal: Three more flights before winter arrives.
11th flight
12th flight
13th flight
Receipts for this donation will be recognized for tax purposes in US. All donations should be made payable to "JGive Friends of Asor Fund USA" Inc and they will be forwarded to us.
After years of abuse and hard labor, we have rescued and rehabilitated thousands of donkeys, giving them a life of freedom, peace, and safety — thanks to your unwavering support.
We need your help to continue.
After 10 flights and over 500 donkeys that have already flown to live happily in shelters in Europe, we know for sure:
Flying donkeys is the only solution to the dire situation of donkeys in Israel.
About us
Starting Over, founded in 2017 by Sharon Cohen, is a nonprofit organization. We are Israel's largest animal sanctuary and one of the largest in the world, with a primary focus on donkeys and horses. Currently, we house approximately 2,000 animals, including more than 1,000 donkeys, almost 100 horses, and hundreds of cats, dogs, and other farm animals. Each of these animals has endured cruel abuse, neglect, or abandonment. At our shelter, they receive a fresh start, experiencing freedom, love, and the compassionate side of humanity.
The Donkey Flight Project
The Donkey Flight Project is our flagship initiative and the first of its kind globally.
We refuse to ignore the plight of donkeys and the urgent appeals for their rescue. As a result, the number of donkeys at our sanctuary has increased significantly, presenting financial and logistical challenges.
Our solution is to fly donkeys to shelters in Europe that are willing to take them in, provide them with wonderful lives, and take on their ongoing care and maintenance. The cost of flying a donkey is significantly lower than the annual expense of keeping a donkey in our sanctuary.
This project is essential for the continued operations of our non-profit organization.
Despite the numerous challenges posed by the war, we have successfully transported over 500 donkeys to Europe so far. Hundreds more donkeys are awaiting their next flights to loving homes. According to the Israel Police and local authorities with whom we collaborate, the impact of our efforts is evident. Most of the donkeys in need have already been rescued, and the number of donkeys requiring assistance has decreased significantly. We believe we are on the right path to eradicating abuse. The quicker we act, the more we can prevent the natural breeding of donkeys that are mistreated.
Watch videos from previous flights
1st flight
9th flight
Meet some of the donkeys that have made their way to Europe
Some pictures of the donkeys before their rescue are distressing. To view them, click the arrows on the image.
Stanley
Stanley was rescued in 2022 after a TikTok video showed a donkey with its ears cut off and a boy forcing it to drink vodka. After a week of searching, Stanley was found and rescued.
He was flown to France in 2022.
Stanley's caretaker in France told us, "He holds no grudge against humans for what they did to him."
Hilik
Hilik was rescued in 2021 after two donkeys that had become stranded in marshes near the Dead Sea region were spotted from the air. Unfortunately, Hilik's friend was no longer alive. Hilik was rescued in a complex operation and arrived at the sanctuary.
He was flown to France in 2025.
Sunny
Sunny was rescued in 2018 after being beaten and ridden until he collapsed. He was hospitalized for three weeks in serious condition, and his rehabilitation process was lengthy.
He was flown to France in 2025 with his best friend Gordon.
Edmond
Edmond was rescued in 2024 after being tied by his legs, dragged along the road (and injured as a result), and loaded into the trunk of a private car.
He was flown to France in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet them!
Some of the candidates for the next flights:
Thank you!
