Community & Culture
Building strong, vibrant communities in the Negev region
Sha’ar HaNegev Projects
Rebuilding Identity & Social Connections for Young People
The traumatic events of October 7 shattered the communities in the Western Negev, leaving children cut off from the programs that were essential to their growth and well-being.
As residents begin to return home, resurrecting and funding these youth programs is vital. These activities are not merely extracurricular—they are crucial for rebuilding a sense of normalcy, reconnecting with peers, and supporting emotional recovery. Funding these programs is an investment in the future of an entire generation.
The Negev Foundation seeks partners to support youth programs in the Sha’ar HaNegev region as residents work to rebuild their lives and communities in the wake of October 7. According to a recent YNET report, approximately 60% of Western Negev residents are experiencing moderate to high symptoms of stress, and nearly 50% are showing signs of post-traumatic stress. Additionally, 58% of respondents were directly affected by the Hamas terrorist attack, either personally or through a close family member. The need for support is clear and urgent.
Ranging from art and science to sports, the program aims to support the youth of the region who experienced trauma from the events of October 7.
Need: 1 million USD
Communal Holiday Events
A Program to Foster Morale and Resilience
This program aims to support Sha’ar HaNegev’s eleven communities in developing and executing Jewish and Israeli holiday events throughout the year. The goal is to strengthen communal bonds, enhance cultural heritage, and improve morale in the aftermath of October 7, 2023.
The local communities are encouraged to take an active role in event planning, with oversight from the community council and the local Community Center, in developing activities and programs that meld traditional and local values. It is vital for residents of this area, who were traumatized, to restore their sense of well-being.
The challenge is to develop programs that relate to a diverse population within Sha’ar HaNegev. The regional council, with its Culture & Community Department, has a strong history of organizing successful events and programs for this demographic.
Need: 175,000 USD
Wellness & Social Connections
Hydrotherapy to Benefit Sha’ar HaNegev Seniors
The trauma from October 7 continues to shape the lives of Sha’ar HaNegev residents. Many seniors remain displaced or live with heightened anxiety, further compounding their physical and emotional challenges.
The Resilience Center, under the leadership of Nadav Peretz, has played a pivotal role in coordinating support efforts for the community. “Programs like hydrotherapy do more than rehabilitate the body—they heal the spirit,” Nadav explains. Through innovative approaches and a focus on holistic care, the Resilience Center and the Hydrotherapy Center are working together to help rebuild the lives of the region’s most vulnerable residents.
The hydrotherapy program relies heavily on philanthropic support. Government funding covers basic operations, but sustaining and expanding these vital services requires external partnerships. Donations enable the program to offer a full 11 months of weekly sessions, ensuring that no senior is left behind in the recovery process.
Need: 43,000 USD
Situated to the Western Negev, the events of October 7th gravely impacted the residents of Sha’ar HaNegev. Seven of its eleven communities were displaced until recently. Your support is greatly needed.