Hope in the Midst of Uncertainty

As the war with Iran stretches into the spring, Israel remains in the direct crosshairs of a relentless aerial assault. The impact on civilians has been devastating, as seen in a recent strike on a neighborhood in Bet Shemesh where a missile destroyed a home and claimed nine lives. “Many people were evacuated from the neighboring houses because their houses, too, were impacted or destroyed,” explains Talia Levanon, CEO of the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC). This is now the lived reality for thousands of families currently residing in hotels across the country. 

To help these families navigate such profound trauma, the ITC has stepped in to coordinate essential services ranging from psychiatric care to safe play spaces for children. The logistical challenge is immense, as the coalition supports a population ranging from five-month-old infants to 94-year-old seniors. “It's very challenging,” Levanon says. “Not only because people are exposed to trauma and loss, but also because we have the challenge of securing the right food, the right social workers, and the right therapy for all these people.” 

While basic government aid exists, the ITC identifies critical gaps, particularly regarding the mental health of clinicians and first responders who are reaching their breaking point. A partnership with CBN Israel has become a vital lifeline in addressing these needs. “The partnership with CBN enabled us to provide care for the caregivers,” Levanon notes, adding that this support extends to first responders and play therapy that lacks sufficient government funding. By focusing on those providing the care, the partnership ensures stability remains at the center of the crisis. Despite the difficulties since October 7th, Levanon remains determined: “I was filled with hope because I feel that we are coping, that we are together. Finishing every day with a feeling of satisfaction that we did the best we could is a good feeling.”