Staff from the Beit Shemesh Municipality's Welfare and Social Services Department took part today (Monday) in a special day of learning and appreciation called "The Strength to Keep Going Together – Finding Meaning and Building Resilience."

The event was held to thank the welfare staff for their dedicated work during the war. It included talks, group discussions, and time to reflect on the challenges they faced while helping residents. The day also gave staff new tools to support both their professional work and their own well-being.

One of the speakers was Hila Gonen, Director of the Sderot Resilience Center, who spoke about growing stronger after difficult experiences, keeping hope, and building personal and community resilience. Welfare staff also took part in a panel discussion, where they shared their experiences and what they learned while working during the emergency.

During roundtable discussions, participants talked about returning from emergency situations to daily routine, dealing with stress and burnout, and finding ways to stay strong while continuing to support residents.

Mayor Shmuel Greenberg attended the event and thanked the welfare staff for their work.

"We are still going through a difficult time, and many people are dealing with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. During these moments, you are there for them, offering support, listening, and guidance. Your work helps strengthen both the residents and the entire community".

Deputy Mayor and Welfare Portfolio Holder Shlomo Brillant said:"The city's welfare services have shown how important they are during this time. Staff and volunteers worked day and night with a strong sense of purpose to help every resident who needed support. I thank every one of them for their hard work and dedication."

Head of the Welfare and Social Services Department, Gila Ronen, added:

"Our greatest strength is our people. Throughout the war, our welfare teams worked with professionalism, kindness, and dedication. This appreciation day was a chance to stop, learn, gain strength, and simply say thank you for the important work they do every day."