For over two weeks, Israel has been at war. 

Life With Katyusha Missiles in Tiberias
12:30 Jul 27, '06 / 2 Av 5766
by Ezra HaLevi

In the Shelters

The siren sounds.

People run toward the shelter. People who were in the shelter run out - to grab grandma, to yell for a husband who went to shower in the house, or catch a glimpse of the impact.

"It's been a minute, right?" says Delila.  She frantically dials on her cell phone. The sirens are supposed to give 30 seconds to a minute warning to residents that a missile has been fired in their direction.

Delila talks into the phone to her brother's Philipino caretaker in broken English, "Take him down to the shelter quickly," she says. Her brother fought in all the wars, but had a stroke recently and can't move on his own.

An impact is heard off in the distance and people venture out of the shelters. Some climb up on rooftops to try to see the tell-tale plume of smoke marking a Katyusha missile's impact.

The siren sounds again.

This time less than fifteen seconds pass before a boom is heard - closer this time. People run down the steps.  An all-encompassing explosion rocks the shelter.

The shelter is filled with screams. Kids go into shock. Mothers cradle their sons and daughters as the men run out to survey the damage and treat the wounded.

THANKS TO YOU...

Through your kindness and generosity, NAVAH has been able to do so much.  The overwhelming support received from people worldwide is extremely heartwarming. 

This week, with your outpouring  support, NAVAH has sent over a thousand packages to families that are in bomb shelters in Haifa, Tzfat, Neharia, Carmiel, Sederot and Afula and to the injured victims in the hospitals.  Gift packages are filled with sweets, toys, games, movies, music cds and arts & crafts supplies.  These care packages are sent with all your warm wishes of encouragement and love .

NAVAH has also established a crisis helpline that is available all day.  This helpline provides emotional support to recent victims and provides any immediate assistance that is needed. 

Thank you again for all your helpfulness and thoughtfulness.

WHAT IS NEEDED:

NAVAH has been receiving many calls from families in the North, requesting help to get away for a few days.  Although many families are being hosted in various places, there are still many left behind. Their situations are extremely stressful and a respite, even for a weekend or a few days, will be a tremendous relief.  During the next week, NAVAH will be sending families to guesthouses throughout central Israel . 

Please help sponsor this important project.