Shelter and Solidarity

The tight-knit community of Shlomit, located just 4 miles from Gaza, had just endured relentless barrages of rocket fire from Gaza, lost two men in defense of their neighboring town, and knew they were in danger. Exhausted, tending their wounded, and fearing for their safety, they reached out to Jewish National Fund-USA for help.  

Enter Gabi Harow, a leader in another Jewish National Fund-USA-supported community, Kfar Etzion, who organized for the entire community to relocate to his town on the other side of the country.  

A field school was repurposed into lodgings, beds, sheets, and towels were secured, private buses were hired, and all 350 residents of Shlomit were evacuated. The host community donated countless items of clothing, toys, shoes, and toiletries. They have cooked nourishing meals and arranged respite and entertainment activities for Shlomit’s weary children.  

Yedidya Harush, Jewish National Fund-USA’s Community Liaison and father of three who lives in Shlomit, shared, “They welcomed us with open arms, in the warmest way possible. While the future is unclear, I know we have an incredible nation surrounding us.” Michal Revivo of Shlomit, mother of four said, “After enduring so much, the immediate outpouring of love and support was uplifting from the very beginning.” 

The community of Kfar Etzion is no stranger to trauma. Just 75 years ago, they suffered a brutal massacre during Israel’s War of Independence. With this memory still burning brightly, stepping up to aid their brothers and sisters was an easy decision. Speaking about the quick offer of a safe refuge, Harow said, “We wanted them to come here and experience the warmth and compassion of the community and witness the resilient spirit that emerged from the massacre. We are committed to providing them with hope and strength.” 

In a time when it would be so easy to crumble, Am Yisrael, the people of Israel have come together stronger than ever. Whatever the future holds for Shlomit, they know they will not face it alone.