Compassionate partnership

Wendy Platt Newberger has hosted countless of Israeli families in her Chicago home through the years. So, when she learned of an opportunity to host a family from Kibbutz Holit for a week this past summer, she signed up without hesitation.

“We open our home to people even when it’s not always under the best of circumstances,” she said. “This family had been through a lot. They needed a break from where they were and are lucky that we have the space to host. I know how meaningful it was for them, but I’m also grateful they gave me this opportunity.”

Families from Kibbutz Holit traveled to Chicago as part of its partnership with Anshe Sholom B’nai Israel (ASBI) following October 7. The small kibbutz , located in the Gaza envelope, was hit especially hard during the attacks.

“It didn’t get much media attention, but about a third of the homes in Kibbutz Holit were destroyed, 15 people were killed, and several were taken hostage,” explained Rebecca Koren, Chair of the synagogue’s Family Programs Committee. “It has about 200 residents and is a very tight-knit community, which is basically the same size and profile as ASBI. We found that that especially meaningful.”

Since October 7, the Chicago congregation has been in constant communication with members of the kibbutz and raised money for the healing community. “Any time someone from the shul went to Israel, they brought suitcases full of new clothes, toys for the kids, and more to the residents who have been in temporary housing since the attack,” Koren said. “Ultimately, they decided that what they wanted most was a chance to escape the post-attack trauma they’ve been living in.”

In July, ASBI welcomed 36 members of the kibbutz to its Lakeview synagogue community. While their calendars were packed with events like an architectural boar tour, a day at Six Flags, and outlet mall shopping, the visitors valued their time together most.

“A lot of them have not seen their friends,” Newberger explained. “It was very emotional watching them reunite. It was important for them to have the space and be themselves and be together. I think those are the moments they really enjoyed.”

“Coming to Chicago was the best decision we have made during the war,” said Oren Zvada, a resident of Kibbutz Holit. Zvada traveled to Chicago with his wife and two young children. “Being away for two weeks felt safe and that’s what we needed. For the first time since October 7, we didn’t have to take care of anything. They did this from the bottom of their hearts, and we could feel it.”

Newberger reflected on serving as a listening ear to the trauma. “What was surprising was when it would come up during the course of the week. It would be at random times,” she said. “It’s so clearly on the surface for them so a lot of things make them think about where they’ve been.”

“We have bonded so much with these families, and it has just been heartwarming and a remarkable testament to the unity and strength of the Jewish people,” Koren said. “American or Israeli or anywhere in between, we are really one people.”