Dear friends and partners,
The horrifying terror attack that struck on the morning of Simchat Torah has left the city of Sderot in shock and pain. Families have been torn apart, houses have been burned to the ground, and now any sense of safety has been completely shattered. The city of Sderot has never experienced such a tragedy, and these events will forever be etched in our hearts.
During this difficult time, the people of Sderot need help. We urgently need to acquire equipment for the Emergency Volunteer Teams and provide mental health support for the residents, as well as immediate rehabilitation following this devastating attack.
Over the years, with your support, Sderot has evolved into a symbol of resilience and strength, thriving despite the persistent shadow of terror. Even though we never imagined we’d be forced to face such an attack and survive a danger at this magnitude. Emergancy staff, social workers and volunteers have all come together to aid the residents. But handling the situation requires even more substantial assistance.
Equipment for the emergency staff
The staffs are made up of volunteers aiding the residents in real-time. We are in need of bulletproof vests, helmets, flashlights, first aid kits, and radios.
The cost of equipment for each volunteer is $2,000.
We need equipment for 80 volunteers.
Psychological assistance for residents
While the city remains under complete lockdown, families are confined within the protected areas, and there are still active combat zones in our territory. The need for psychological assistance through the resilience center in the city has significantly grown. The caregivers and social workers at the center are helping residents cope with the events, and now we require over 2,000 hours of urgent treatment at a total cost of $272,818.
Relief activities
Residents are experiencing immense psychological distress, and the best way to ease the trauma is to offer a variety of relief activities. Taking families out of shelters for relief activities positively impacts their well-being. We must provide them with safe transportation, activities, and accommodation. Additionally, many families have lost their homes, and we need to relocate them . The estimated total cost stands at $225,915 USD.
Completion of the Resilience Complex Construction
About a year ago, we inaugurated the first building in the complex of a new and secure treatment center that currently serves over 2,000 patients annually, including children, families, and therapy groups. We are now nearing the completion of the second building, the 'Parenting Home,' which will focus on family, couples, and parental counseling in resilience and post-traumatic matters. We still lack the necessary funds to finish this critical project. The remaining amount to be raised is approximately 710,000$
At this time, your assistance is needed and is significant for the community of Sderot, which is experiencing an unprecedented crisis. Any help will be received with gratitude and will enable us to begin the healing process. We will continue to stand strong against acts of terror, but we cannot do it alone. We need your help to rebuild Sderot and heal.
I want to thank you for your empathy and support during this difficult time. Together, we will rebuild the city and our hope for a better future.
With regards,
Alon Davidi,
Mayor of Sderot
