The Beit Shemesh Community Needs Your Support with an Immediate Emergency Response

A direct strike on a protected shelter in Beit Shemesh has left our community shocked and grieving. Nine people were killed, including three children; 44 were injured, and approximately 750–850 residents were evacuated from their homes.

Tonight, after the holiday of Shushan Purim ends in Israel, the grieving families will go back to sitting Shiva again. They need us NOW!

In the wake of this devastating tragedy, Keren Shemesh (the Beit Shemesh Community Foundation) is mobilizing emergency support, raising and distributing funds directly to affected families while also assisting the city’s emergency and rescue services. The foundation is working in close coordination with the Mayor’s Office, the municipal leadership, the welfare department, and local chessed organizations to address urgent needs that are not covered by government funding.

Keren Shemesh has already raised and provided immediate assistance to families - including clothing and essential daily supplies. We must go far beyond this immediately. Here are the most urgent projects:

~ Alternative Frameworks for Evacuated Residents: Approximately 160 children who were evacuated from their homes, along with elderly residents and others, require temporary educational frameworks, daily activities, and emotional support during the evacuation period.
Estimated cost for 60 days: Approximately ₪720,000 (about $205,000).

~ Replenishing Medical Equipment for Emergency Units: During the first days following the attack, a significant amount of medical equipment was used and depleted. There is a need for 50–60 emergency responder medical kits.
Cost per kit: ₪1,500 (about $400). Total need: ₪75,000–90,000 (about $24,000–$28,000).

~ Equipment and Training for the Municipal Rescue Unit: (200+ Volunteers) To maintain full readiness under ongoing threat conditions, a comprehensive equipment and training package is required for the municipal rescue unit.
Estimated cost: Approximately ₪230,000 (about $65,000). We are exploring the possibility of matching funds to leverage this amount.

~ Strengthening the Municipal Welfare Team: There has been a significant increase in trauma-related cases. Additional support is needed for three months of social workers and trauma professionals.
Estimated cost: approximately ₪330,000 (about $105,000).

~ Housing-Related Support: Approximately 750–850 residents are currently staying in hotels. While the government covers the accommodations themselves, there are related costs that remain unfunded - initial food provisions before formal intake is arranged, individualized support for complex family situations, medical and accessibility adjustments, and additional municipal coordination. Estimated cost: approximately ₪300,000 (about $95,500).

We are careful to focus requests only where private philanthropy adds real value and does not duplicate government funding.

Keren Shemesh is prepared to act immediately. 👉 To find out more and to donate: https://www.jgive.com

We would be glad to share further details at any time. Email: Raanan@kerenbshemesh.org.il  Tel: 02-991-4211