Our partnership with Kibbutz Gvar’am is progressing, and our Joint Committee, comprised of representatives of the Jewish Agency, representatives of Kibbutz Gvar’am, and Federation staff and lay leaders, is preparing to hire the educators, therapists, and staff who will work with the traumatized youth and provide new, engaging resilience-building informal education programs.  

Gvar’am youth were particularly affected by the tragedy of October 7. Many lost friends in nearby communities, leading to widespread feelings of insecurity and distrust. As a coping mechanism, many young residents have turned to substance use, highlighting the urgent need for trauma counseling and structured support programs. The Joint Committee will work together to decide how best to allocate Federation funds to support specific programs to get the youth back on track.  

In preliminary discussions with Gvar’am, kibbutz leadership mentioned that even more important than money was the need for the embrace of Jewish communities in the diaspora. The kibbutz felt alone, as only the hardest hit communities were partnering with Federations and other Jewish organizations. Strengthening personal relationships is a critical part of how Federation will support Gvar’am. The joint committee will plan virtual programs such as holiday celebrations, teen get togethers, opportunities to watch and cheer for the kibbutz Mamanet Cachibol (Newcomb ball) team, and unite our communities. These efforts will culminate in a visit to Gvar’am as part of a Federation mission to Israel in the future.   

Federation has partnered 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 will play a critical role in this recovery with a coordinated intervention, including trauma support and financial assistance. With Federation’s help, Gvar’am will rebuild its social fabric, and restore its residents’ sense of security.