Alongside Residents: Large-Scale Humanitarian Response in Be’er Sheva and Beit Shemesh

Following the recent missile strike incidents, JDC is operating in Be’er Sheva and Beit Shemesh to provide comprehensive humanitarian assistance to families whose property was damaged and to strengthen municipal preparedness.

Distribution of equipment to evacuees from Beit Shemesh. Photo credit: Adi Kenan.

Distribution of equipment to evacuees from Beit Shemesh. Photo credit: Adi Kenan.

The model that was developed is based on knowledge accumulated during the war and consists of four complementary assistance channels, providing a broad safety net for the municipality and its residents:

Provision of essential humanitarian supplies

Within hours of the strikes, approximately 800 kg of equipment were delivered to evacuation centers and to affected families in Beit Shemesh. The supplies included toiletries, clothing, pajamas, underwear, shoes, and mobile phone chargers. Be’er Sheva received a similar shipment. The activity is carried out in partnership with the nonprofit organization Social Transportation.

Community adaptation: The equipment was adapted to the needs of the local population, including modest clothing.
Seasonal response: Due to the proximity of the events to the Purim holiday, children also received costumes and Purim gift packages.

Flexible emergency budget for the municipality

Each municipality was allocated a flexible budget designated to respond to the emergency needs of its residents, according to needs identified in the field. This budget enables the municipality to act quickly and without bureaucracy when assisting vulnerable populations, while also building infrastructure to cope with future emergency events.

Photo credit: Adi Kenan.
Photo credit: Adi Kenan.

Reinforcing manpower: Community Supporters

In order to strengthen the municipal welfare departments, we activated our emergency program “Community Supporter” to assist the municipalities. The supporters serve as a personal and consistent point of contact for older adults, people with disabilities, and families at risk, assisting with the realization of rights, solving everyday problems, and alleviating loneliness.

Upgrading medical and rescue preparedness

In collaboration with JDC-Grid (JDC’s international disaster relief arm), rescue kits and advanced medical equipment were delivered to municipal emergency squads and Self-Help First Response teams (SAAR). This effort also includes training for field teams to ensure maximum preparedness for future incidents.

Recognizing that the social impact and consequences of the war require a long process of recovery, we are committed to continuing to provide assistance that combines physical supplies with human and professional support.

You are invited to continue following our activities here on the website or on our Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

Rescue operations in Be'er Sheva. Photo: Be'er Sheva Municipality.
Rescue operations in Be’er Sheva. Photo: Be’er Sheva Municipality.
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