[COMMUNICATED] Over the past year, the day-to-day reality for Israeli children in cities near the Gaza Envelope has been bleak. Though their homes weren’t ravaged by terrorists on October 7th, they have lived in close proximity to a war zone and their lives have been turned upside-down. Out of school for months, back and forth to bomb shelters, and now accustomed to feeling the ground shake beneath their feet, these children are having traumatic experiences by all accounts.

At the beginning of the war, a group of volunteers helped temporarily resettle some families fleeing these communities into empty apartments in Yerushalayim. When it was safe enough for them to return home and families discovered that their children continued to struggle, the same volunteers pivoted to build a new project that would be the answer to their needs.

This project, Fortify Israel, aims to empower teachers to serve their students’ unprecedented social-emotional needs. They bring psychologists to train teachers to identify which students need therapy and facilitate groups for all students within their schools to process difficult emotions, learn skills to cope with anxiety, and build resilience. In this way, Fortify Israel prepares teachers to serve as first-responders and community trauma educators.

Mental health professionals warn that the violence of war could cause PTSD for some of these children. Already, the program has helped countless families avoid this tragic outcome for their children. One teacher who participated in the training, Elisheva R., was undergoing these challenges at home. At the sound of every rocket siren, her 3-year-old boy would have a paralyzing panic attack. They could only get to the bomb shelter by dragging him, kicking and screaming. The parents were at a loss until the Fortify Israel training gave them the tools to help the boy in the midst of his overwhelming anxiety.

The impact of Fortify Israel’s programs extends far beyond individual stories. Approximately 30% of children living in conflict zones are at risk of developing PTSD, but with timely intervention, they can find healing. Support circles foster safe environments for children to confront their emotions and share their experiences, a vital step toward recovery. So far, Fortify Israel has trained 70 teachers in 18 schools, and those teachers’ groups have engaged 650 children.

As these children navigate the complexities of their experiences, it is crucial that they are provided with the tools they need to thrive. This week, from Sunday through Tuesday, Fortify Israel is running a crowdfunding campaign with a goal of raising $150,000. The funds will directly support ongoing programming and extend services to an additional 3,400 students in need. Your contribution can make a tangible difference, preparing teachers to support their students as the war continues and helping families reclaim their peace of mind.

Learn more and donate now on the campaign page. With haskamos from leading rabbonim in Yerushalayim. These kids are relying on us, and we are relying on you — please donate today!