
Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey has announced the launch of a partnership with Kibbutz Gvar’am, located east of the Gaza Strip, to help its residents, 65% of whom are under the age of 18, rebuild their lives.
Federation learned the kibbutz requires immediate support to restore its community structure and address the hidden trauma left by the events of October 7. Federation will play a critical role in this recovery, by providing financial support for trauma therapy, educational initiatives, and structured youth programs.
Additionally, as Gvar’am’s infrastructure remains intact, the kibbutz is well-positioned to offer temporary housing and community services to displaced neighboring communities, with Federation assistance further supporting these outreach efforts.
On the night of October 6, 2023, the kibbutz celebrated “Children’s Day,” with families camping on the central lawn. The following morning, they awoke to warning sirens and explosions, indicating imminent danger. With limited time to reach secure shelters, residents took refuge in various protected areas, including outdoor bomb shelters and nearby buildings.
Despite the escalating threat, Gvar’am’s residents received no official guidance from the IDF or police, creating an atmosphere of confusion and fear. By late afternoon, kibbutz leaders independently decided to evacuate in private vehicles, dispersing community members across multiple, uncoordinated locations. This decentralization fragmented the kibbutz community, leaving residents disconnected and unsettled. Following the attack, Gvar’am members were temporarily housed in Caesarea, Kibbutz Givat Haim, and other supportive communities until their return in February and March 2024.
Though Gvar’am did not sustain physical damage, the events of October 7 have left residents traumatized. Gvar’am had previously been unaffected by conflicts along the Gaza border, and the community was unprepared for the sudden infiltration threat.
Youth members were particularly affected — some lost friends in nearby communities — and many have turned to substance use, highlighting the urgent need for trauma counseling and structured support systems.
During the recent holiday of Chanukah, Federation and Gvar’am came together for a joint menorah lighting ceremony via Zoom, transcending distance and, for the first time, bringing two communities who care about one another together.
We look forward to sharing in many more meaningful connections in the months and years ahead. Enjoy this video highlight.