Rebuild Israel

In the aftermath of the October 7 tragedy, Kibbutz Mishmar Haemek in the Yokneam–Megiddo region opened its doors to nearly 400 evacuees from Kibbutz Nahal Oz. From the very beginning, the Jewish Federations of Atlanta and St. Louis—together with Israeli partners through Communities2Gether, a Jewish Agency initiative—have stood united in supporting their recovery. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to resilience and rebuilding, ensuring that those impacted feel the strength of the global Jewish community. 

Through this collaboration, the federations have funded trauma therapy, organized holiday celebrations such as Hanukkah and Purim, hosted community gatherings, and fostered meaningful connections between Nahal Oz and the partner communities. From care packages and storytelling exchanges to fundraising efforts and ongoing support, these efforts continue to bring light, hope, and compassion. Moving forward, this partnership remains a powerful testament to what can be achieved when communities come together, providing not only resources but also enduring solidarity. 

In early January, How Are You?” a new public awareness campaign launched with support from the Jewish Federations of Chicago and Philadelphia, to provide Israelis with accessible, research-based tools to understand trauma, manage stress, and know when to seek support. Developed by ICAR, the campaign is strengthening emotional resilience and reducing stigma around mental health. 

This national psychoeducation campaign will unify and amplify efforts to support the Israeli public’s psychological resilience in the wake of October 7 and the ongoing war. Rather than relying on fragmented initiatives, this campaign coordinates a national, evidence-based approach—delivering consistent messaging, broad reach, and maximum impact.  

Thanks to the leadership and funding of the Chicago and Philadelphia Federations, the campaign brings together top experts, government ministries, and NGOs to reach those most in need. This partnership sets a new standard for mental health education in Israel, driving healing, recovery, and long-term resilience across communities. 

In the wake of the October 7 attacks, the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston spearheaded the “Good Grief” initiative to address the profound grief affecting children and families in Israel. Partnering with the Herman H. Fleishman Foundation and leading Israeli clinicians, the Federation facilitated specialized training in Multidimensional Grief Therapy (MGT) at Houston’s Trauma and Grief (TAG) Center. This collaboration equips Israeli clinicians with advanced, evidence-based tools to support bereaved children and families, empowering them to deliver targeted interventions for loss and bereavement in the Israeli context. 

This international partnership marks the first time the TAG Center has trained mental health professionals from another country, thanks to Houston’s leadership. Five Israeli clinicians are now official MGT trainers, ensuring the widespread dissemination of culturally adapted grief therapy throughout Israel. As these clinicians return home, they will lead virtual trainings for dozens more Israeli professionals, multiplying the impact and building a sustainable framework for grief support.