The children of Israel are enduring unimaginable challenges as the youngest and most innocent victims of traumatic attacks. Their lives have been upended by fear, anxiety, and the aftermath of violence. Many suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), experiencing symptoms like sleep disturbances, behavioral changes, and debilitating anxiety. For some, the fear of another attack is so overwhelming that they cannot leave their temporary homes or shelters.
To address these profound needs, we at LHM have partnered with organizations in the Holy Land to provide vital therapy and recovery programs for children impacted by war. These trauma camps offer a safe space where boys and girls can begin the journey of healing and reclaiming their childhoods. Through activities like arts and crafts, music, and movement, these camps have already brought hope and healing to more than 1,000 children who have been victimized by the ongoing conflict and rocket attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah. For a few precious hours, these children can forget the bombs, sirens, and terror that haunt their daily lives.
Stories of Resilience
These camps have transformed the lives of hundreds of children, including three remarkable stories that highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of your support.
Luria’s Story
Luria, a 10-year-old boy from Netivot, was just five years old when his life changed forever. In 2018, a barrage of missiles struck his area, leaving him traumatized. Once a bright and independent child, Luria regressed significantly, becoming anxious and struggling socially and academically. His PTSD manifests as a fear of closed spaces, difficulty concentrating, and episodes of crying accompanied by rapid heartbeat and cold sweats. Despite weekly therapy and school support, Luria’s progress is often set back by new security incidents, including the horrific events of October 7.
However, this summer, Luria attended a trauma recovery camp supported by the Fund for Victims of Terror. For the first time in years, he experienced joy, made new friends, and returned home each day with a radiant smile. His mother expressed heartfelt gratitude, writing, “Thanks to you, our children were able to laugh, to have fun, and to experience a feeling of belonging. You gave them a summer full of joy and unforgettable moments.”
Israel-Meir and Yedidia Madmoni’s Story
Brothers Israel-Meir, 13, and Yedidia, 9, also from Netivot, were vibrant and sociable children until October 7, when their neighborhood came under attack. The family spent 32 harrowing hours in a protected room, listening to gunshots and screams. After the attack, both boys exhibited signs of severe PTSD. Israel-Meir began to stutter and have nightmares, while both boys initially slept with toy guns under their pillows.
Attending the trauma recovery camp became a turning point for the brothers. For the first time in months, they felt safe enough to leave their home without their parents. Their parents shared how the camp gave the boys a sense of peace and normalcy. “Specifically in these days when fear is overwhelming, the camp became an island of light amidst the darkness. It gave our boys a chance to feel safe, loved, and seen,” their mother wrote.
Revital and Eli’s Family
Revital and Eli Cohen’s family endured a harrowing attack during a trip to Jerusalem. Their young children, Hodaya and Yagel, were left deeply scarred. Hodaya, in particular, struggled with severe anxiety and could not leave the house without her older sister by her side.
Through the trauma camps, Hodaya found a supportive environment where she could begin to heal. Her older sister, Shoham, who accompanied her for reassurance, was inspired to become a camp counselor. The family credits the camp with restoring a sense of joy and hope to their lives. “The spark of happiness returned to our children’s eyes,” they shared. “Knowing that they are cared for by such dedicated and compassionate people gives us hope that their souls will heal.” You can read their full story here.
The Role of Generosity in Healing
The trauma camps are not just a temporary reprieve for these children; they are a lifeline. They offer professional therapeutic support, a sense of community, and the opportunity for these young survivors to begin rebuilding their lives. The stories of Luria, Israel-Meir, Yedidia, Eli and Revital are testaments to the power of these programs. Yet, there are so many more children who need this care.
Every contribution to these camps makes a difference. Donations help cover the costs of therapy, art supplies, meals, and transportation, ensuring that no child is turned away. Support from compassionate individuals like you enables children to experience moments of laughter, connection, and healing that would otherwise be out of reach.
Join Us in Restoring Hope
The children of Israel have endured unimaginable suffering, but together, we can help them rediscover hope. Your support of LHM’s trauma camps directly impacts the lives of young survivors, giving them the tools to heal and the strength to move forward.
As we continue this mission, we invite you to stand with us. Your generosity can bring light to the darkest moments, offering these children a chance to reclaim their childhoods. Let’s show them that even in the midst of hardship, they are not alone.
Join us in making a difference. Together, we can restore hope, one child at a time.
