By Alon Schuster
KIBBUTZ MEFALSIM, Israel — I would like to update you on what is happening here in Sha’ar HaNegev over the past few months. As of last March, the terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip began to intensify their attacks on the communities bordering the Gaza Strip, and Sha’ar HaNegev in particular. As of May 29, more than 100 Qassam rockets and mortar shells were fired at Israel.
In addition, we are facing a new terror – one in the form of burning kites and helium balloons with live embers flying towards the agricultural areas of the region. So far, more than 1,500 acres of land in our region have been burned down and caused enormous damage.
Over the past few weeks, the sense of security and community among Sha’ar HaNegev residents has begun to crumble. We are beginning to see signs of behavior and distress similar to those experiences in the wake of Operation Protective Edge, including over-alertness (even among the most resilient residents), stress, anxiety, restlessness, and fear that we are facing another war. The departments of welfare and psychological services in Sha’ar HaNegev have begun to see an increase in the symptoms of stress and anxiety since last February and are starting to adapt appropriate therapies for all age groups.
In light of the current situation, the number of treatments in the center has increased and requires immediate attention. We do not want to refuse treatments that are so necessary in this tense period, and your support at this time is more important than ever! The knowledge that our community is in your thoughts, and that our struggle is your struggle, boosts and sustains our reserve, enabling us to stand up to these terrorist organizations. Hoping for quieter days.
Sincerely,
Alon Schuster
Mayor, Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council
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The Jewish Federation of San Diego County is raising money for the relief of Sha’ar Hanegev, which is the Federation’s partnership region in Israel. It has pledged that 100 percent of the dollars raised through its emergency drive will go to Sha’ar Hanegev, without any deductions for administrative expenses. To access Federation’s donation page for Sha’ar Hanegev, please click here.