Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors: War Update
By: Nativia Samuelsen, ICEJ AID Administrator
As Iranian missiles struck across the nation of Israel and sirens filled the night, life in the Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors continued amid war. Our residents, all in their 80s and 90s, once again faced thehaunting echo of war while sitting in safe rooms and listening to the terrifying sounds of explosions and interceptions above.
For 12 days, the Haifa area faced relentless Iranian missile barrages after Israel’s preemptive strike to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Several were killed near the port. While some of our residents can make it to the bomb shelters, many of our elderly simply cannot. When the siren blares, they remain in bed, and all they can do is wait for the danger to pass.
Despite the residents’ age and past trauma, the Survivors remain calm—even as they wake repeatedly during the night to take shelter.
Care for Holocaust Survivors amid War
War has not stopped life at the Haifa Home. Despite the sirens, fear, and tension in the air, daily rhythms continue with quiet strength. Hebrew lessons still take place, giving residents a sense of progress and purpose. Bingo brings moments of laughter, lifting spirits when the world outside feels heavy. Physiotherapy sessions help keep bodies moving and strong. Each day, these brave Survivors gather for lunch to share a meal that brings connection and restores a sense of routine.
91-Year-Old Rita
Recently, after residents participated in morning gymnastics, we celebrated Rita’s 91st birthday—singing songs, eating cake, and sharing smiles. Amid this difficult time, these daily routines have become essential.
Reassurance for Elderly Survivors
Our deputy AID director Yudit Setz and her husband have chosen to spend their nights at the ICEJ Haifa Home office, where a bomb shelter is available for residents. She helps guide the Survivors into the shelter and stays with them until the all-clear is given. Her presence offers reassurance in these difficult moments.
Meanwhile, our call center has been overwhelmed. Holocaust Survivors across Haifa, many too frightened to leave their homes, call in seeking reassurance, expressing a need for food, or simply longing for the sound of another voice. We are doing everything possible to calm them and provide a daily hot meal.
Every day, we prepare 400 hot meals for Holocaust Survivors who live in the Home as well as for those who live independently in Haifa. Each one costs just over $7 USD, yet the impact is immeasurable.
How to Pray
Your prayers and support are keeping hope alive here. Please join us in prayer for God’s divine protection over our residents and all those in harm’s way. Please also consider sponsoring one or more meals for survivors who have already endured more than anyone should. Every gift, large or small, becomes a part of our life-giving work.
Help support Holocaust Survivors facing new trauma—donate to the Haifa Home fund today.
Main photo: Haifa Home Holocaust Survivors gathered together in a bomb shelter during an Iranian missile attack