Transforming Bomb Shelters for Israeli Safety

CBN Israel’s Nicole Jansezian is on location in Israel speaking to those affected by the war and those who are showing up to help.

“You know, CBN has long been involved in building bomb shelters around the country, but the need has never been more urgent as it is right now,” says Nicole. “So, we’re here in Bat Yam, which is a city south of Tel Aviv, which has leveled buildings and damaged neighborhoods due to an Iranian missile.”

“One of our partner organizations is Tenufa baKehila, or “Building Hope.” They have been on a mission to repair bomb shelters around the country.”

Gabi Nachmani is the founder and director of Building Hope.

Nicole: “So tell us where we are and what’s happening here.”

Gabi: “An Iranian rocket fell here about two days ago and destroyed hundreds of homes in the neighborhood. This building was not hit, but people rushed to the bomb shelter.”

“When they rushed to the bomb shelter, they found out that the staircase is broken and there’s no railing. So older people could not go into the bomb shelter downstairs. And basically, it’s unusable.”

“There are 18 families living in this building and they all need to use this bomb shelter. Hopefully, by the end of the day today, it’s all going to be painted and clear. The stench is going to be out, and people can come and stay here.”

The daughter of one of the building’s elderly residents expressed her gratitude for CBN’s assistance. “It will be a lot safer for my mother to get to the bomb shelter. She can hold on to the railing. Even getting out of the shelter was hard for her without this railing. Thank you so much for helping.”

And her mother was very appreciative for the safer access to the bomb shelter. “This is so touching. Thank you. I would kiss your hands for doing this work.

“It was so easy to work with CBN,” says Gabi. “It’s such a pleasure to work with CBN. I feel that Christians who support Israel, we have the same mission. We have, you know, a biblical mission to strengthen Israel and make sure that the Jewish people are thriving in Israel.”

“Sometimes it’s as simple as a railing that is going to save lives, especially in an emergency,” says Nicole. “So, we want to thank you so much for your support because your support is literally helping to save lives here.”