Hope Grows Where We Stand Together

Over 10 unforgettable days, Shai Fund and a team of 24 volunteers traveled across Israel, bringing hands-on support and heartfelt solidarity to communities devastated by the October 7 attacks. From planting thousands of vines in the Golan Heights to restoring homes and gardens in the south, each day was filled with stories of courage, moments of connection, and tangible steps toward hope. 

Thanks to your prayers, generosity, and encouragement, this mission reached those who needed it most – reminding farmers, families, and survivors that they are not alone in their journey to rebuild. 

Key Projects & Impact

Nazareth – Building Bridges of Peace 
On the first day, the team met Pastor Saleem Shalash, who is uniting Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities through aid and dialogue. His tireless efforts to support displaced families and IDF soldiers have made him a vital bridge-builder in a region too often divided. 

Golan Heights – Replanting the Future
A day was spent at Odem Mountain Winery, where the team planted 4,300 vines (3,100 Nebbiolo and 1,200 Riesling) across 2 acres. With many local workers drafted into military service, this practical help was a lifeline for sustaining essential agricultural work and boosting community morale. 

Nir Yitzhak Kibbutz – Three-Day Restoration Project 
For three days, volunteers worked side by side with survivors to clear debris, restore gardens, and make the kibbutz feel like home again. Before October 7, Nir Yitzhak was home to 500 people; since the attacks, only 300 have returned. These efforts accelerated the healing process and helped residents take hopeful steps forward. 

Listening to Voices of Courage

Dana, who lost friends but chooses daily to live with hope: 

“Doing all this work is amazing but just coming here and saying you are not alone has so much impact on the healing.”  

Ella, who lost her husband Tal defending the kibbutz, yet shared her determination to raise her children with joy and resilience. 

Adele, from Kibbutz Nirim, who lost friends and peace advocates, yet continues to believe “hope is our secret weapon.” 

Yair, director of the kibbutz dairy farm, who narrowly escaped harm on October 7 and rebuilt his farm with Israel’s first automated feeding system so the animals would never go hungry again. 

Nova Festival Survivor & IDF Soldiers

The team also had the honor of meeting Yarin Levin, a survivor of the Nova music festival attack, who shared his ongoing struggles and his deep desire to restore humanity to the narrative of the conflict. Through our partnership with Friends of the IDF, we visited injured IDF soldiers recovering in hospital, delivering gifts and messages of support to remind them they are not forgotten. 

Why This Matters 

The attacks on October 7 and beyond devastated not only homes and families but Israel’s agricultural heartland — the western Negev alone provides 75% of Israel’s vegetables and 20% of its fruit. With over 30,000 agricultural workers missing due to death, abduction, or flight, many farms are at risk of collapse. Our volunteer efforts directly supported food security, restored livelihoods, and strengthened the resilience of communities determined to rebuild. 

Our presence demonstrated international solidarity and provided emotional and practical support — proving once again that in times of crisis, hope grows where people show up. 

Moving Forward

While the trip has ended, the need for long-term restoration continues. Communities are still rebuilding homes, infrastructure, and a sense of safety. Our partners remain committed to helping families return, replant fields, and heal from the trauma they’ve experienced. 

On behalf of the entire volunteer team and the communities we stood alongside, thank you for making this mission possible.