Jewish Boca was honored to welcome residents of Kibbutz Ein HaShlosha last week as they shared firsthand stories of resilience and how Federation’s support is helping them rebuild following October 7, 2023.

Through Communities2Gether (C2G), a program of the Jewish Agency for Israel, and in partnership with Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, Jewish Boca proudly supports Ein HaShlosha, a kibbutz located along the Gaza border, as it continues its journey toward recovery.

Members of the community opened their homes to welcome the nine-person delegation, offering a personal connection and a place to stay during their visit. April Leavy, Chair of our Communities2Gether partnership with Ein HaShlosha was proud to host Sunshine Levy, with whom she has developed a close bond.

“I first met Sunshine shortly after October 7, when delegates from Kibbutz Ein HaShlosha came to Jewish Boca for a much-needed respite. On this visit, Sunshine became my second daughter and is someone I’ve come to love through our partnership and support,” said April.

Throughout the week, the delegation met with hundreds of high school students from Donna Klein Jewish Academy and Katz Yeshiva, college students at FAU, Jewish Boca’s lay leaders, community members, and Federation staff. At each gathering, they shared what Federation’s support has meant to them.

For Elihay Bental, 38, who moved to Ein HaShlosha with his wife and two daughters before October 7, the opportunity to meet the people who helped his family through one of the most difficult periods of their lives was especially meaningful.

“I know Federation hears about the tangible impact of its generosity, but we don’t often get to express just how deeply that support has impacted us on a spiritual and emotional level. It was incredibly moving to look into the eyes of the Jewish Boca community and say, ‘Because of you, we know we are not alone,’” said Bental.

Meital Lefler, 37, shared that the resilience of the community, especially the children, has been incredible to witness.  “As soon as they were welcomed back to the kibbutz, they ran with joy,” she said.

Jewish Boca’s support for Ein HaShlosha continues through projects focused on long-term healing and renewal for residents, including a therapeutic art center serving Ein HaShlosha and the surrounding region.

The delegation also shared that 99% of the residents who lived in Ein HaShlosha before October 7, 2023, have returned home. With more homes currently under construction, the kibbutz is looking ahead to welcoming new members and rebuilding its future.

Their message to Jewish Boca was clear: Your support has made a lasting impact, and your partnership has served as an essential reminder that we are not alone.

Watch a special video from Ein HaShlosha expressing gratitude for your support.