By: Nativia Samuelsen

In July, the members of Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak received a sombre update. The body of Oren Goldin, who belonged to the kibbutz’s emergency team, had just been recovered from Gaza. Goldin fell while defending the kibbutz during the devastating Hamas attack on October 7 last year and his body had been taken back into Gaza.

On that horrific day, Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak, a close-knit community known for its beauty, was thrust into full defensive mode as Hamas terrorists launched a wave of brutal assaults on the village. The kibbutz’s rapid response team—comprised of just seven volunteers, including two individuals over 60—faced a relentless barrage of automatic fire, grenades and RPGs from nearly 100 terrorists. For over 12 hours, the air was thick with smoke and the sounds of explosions as the team fought valiantly, their bravery fending off what could have been an even greater disaster.

As the battle raged, the defenders sustained injuries but continued to fight as the terrorists threw grenades from behind the front gate, one after another, exploding near the wounded defenders.

The aftermath was devastating: Eight community members were murdered, an entire family was kidnapped, and homes were left in ruins. Hamas terrorists looted and burned what they could, leaving the kibbutz members in a complete state of shock.

In response, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem joined hands with the kibbutz in mourning over this great tragedy by helping them to initiate the project “Parents and Children Returning Home Together”. The aim was to support the families of Nir Yitzhak in their journey to rebuild their lives and strengthen their community bonds through a transformative two-day trip that would help prepare the families for their return home.

These trips, held in the Emek HaMaayanot region, are catering to children aged 4-11 and their parents. The itinerary includes fun activities like hiking and games, and psychological exercises targeting specific community needs. These shared experiences help heal the emotional traumas, and foster communication and a sense of unity among families.

“It was simply amazing!” said Rona Minaker, the project coordinator. “The journey was very significant and empowering for both the families and the community. Throughout the day, there were joint tasks for parents and children, and in the evening the children prepared dinner for the parents and welcomed them to eat together.”

“Some of the children who participated lost their parents on October 7”, Rona continued. “Some lost beloved uncles from the community and friends from school, and they all experienced the terrifying hours of that day and are still refugees, far from their homes. The Nir Yitzhak community is going to split up in the coming year until they return home, which will take about another year.”

“This trip reminded everyone of the joy of being together, of our personal and communal strengths, and it greatly strengthened the personal connections between the children and adults, and of course, the bond between parents and children. It was very, very significant, especially during this time we are in. Even those who did not go were excited to see the pictures from the trip, and there was a lot of curiosity about it.”

“Thank you so very much for understanding the importance of this journey for us and for supporting this project. A big hug on behalf of all the families of Nir Yitzhak. And we hope to do more of these trips”, added Rona.

The resilience of the families of Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak in the face of such adversity should inspire us all. The “Parents and Children Returning Home Together” project is a lifeline of strength and unity for a community determined to heal. The ICEJ remains committed to comforting Israelis communities in the Gaza border area in both their mourning and recovery.

We are so thankful for your support, which enables us to bring aid and relief to the people of Israel in their time of great need. Please continue giving to our Israel in Crisis fund at: help.icej.org/crisis