By: Nativia Samuelsen

An ICEJ team arrived on the dusty roads of Kibbutz Hatzerim, where Israeli families from Kibbutz Be’eri, displaced by the unimaginable tragedy of October 7th, were being welcomed into newly constructed homes.

For these Jewish families, this was not just a move but a monumental step toward healing and rebuilding—a journey that would take at least two years as many of their homes in Kibbutz Be’eri, are built up again from the ashes. Kibbutz Be’eri was one of the worst hit communities on that fatal day, with 101 residents murdered and 32 taken hostage in Gaza.

After spending almost a year at the David Hotel by the Dead Sea, the Be’eri community is relocating to what they hope is a step closer to home.

As the ICEJ team approached Kibbutz Hatzerim, the air was filled with sadness and hopeful anticipation. The houses, some completed, while others are still under construction, were arranged in close proximity, reflecting the kibbutz’s communal style. Dust swirled as construction teams worked tirelessly, racing to complete the homes as swiftly as possible.

Our team brought housewarming gifts, and a generous donation from Singapore. The appreciation was palpable as families began receiving their keys and housewarming gifts. Together with a card from the Christian Embassy, these gifts served as a token of our continued support.

Among the families was Hugo, his wife, and their three daughters. Their new home bustled with activity—furniture being arranged, laughter mixed with conversation, and the hopeful chaos of a fresh start. Hugo welcomed us in, and as we helped assemble furniture, he recounted their story from that fateful day in October.

“My eldest daughter had returned home just an hour before the attack, narrowly escaping tragedy. Her best friend was taken hostage. You can imagine the pain. We all lost loved ones and friends. Thankfully, she was released, but many others were not.” Hugo spoke of friends lost and the grief in the community.

Looking at the team working and standing next to them, Hugo said, “We are so grateful for your help; it is people like you standing next to us that keep us going.”

There was such hope in the house. His young daughter, listening quietly, smiled, and said, “We know we are not alone.”

Our team left having prepared and distributed gifts, built furniture and embraced the community. However, we left with a heavy heart. One of our staff members lingered, reluctant to leave, saying, “There is such a need here… not just for rebuilding, but for comforting, for walking with them through this time.”

Across the kibbutz, families were settling into their new homes, preparing for what was to come. The children, despite everything, were looking towards the start of the new school year in Hatzerim.

Kibbutz Be’eri marked this milestone with a ceremony—both joyous and solemn. Noam Yitzhaki, the kibbutz education director, addressed the children with a heartfelt message: “I wish for you to carry the strength you have shown into the challenges ahead this school year. May it be a year of growth from difficulty, of new friendships, stability, and peace. We all deserve a little peace.”

Meanwhile, hope is also being planted back in Kibbutz Be’eri. Construction has officially begun on the new “Shikmim” neighbourhood, the first step in rebuilding what was lost. The determination to rebuild, not just physically but emotionally, is a testament to the spirit of Be’eri.

Nancy, a longtime resident, described it perfectly: “We knew Be’eri would be one of the first to rebuild and heal. It is who we are—we stand strong, even in the darkest times.”

They have a long journey ahead but have shown great resilience and determination. As Hugo shared, “There is no doubt that our main goal is returning to Be’eri and marking the borders of Israel.” With the support of the ICEJ and friends worldwide, they will return and thrive.

Please join us in our efforts by giving to our Israel in Crisis fund.

Donate today at: help.icej.org/crisis

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