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By Heidi Gantwerk
These days, “resilience” is often used to describe the psychological strength needed to cope with grief, hardship, and recover from difficult life events. This summer, I came face-to-face with true resilience and was left in awe.
It has been 11 months since Hamas launched its horrific October 7 attacks against innocent Israeli civilians. Since then, Jewish Federation of San Diego has been working tirelessly to help our sister region, Sha’ar HaNegev, rebuild and find hope.
For over 25 years, our Federation has nurtured a profound partnership with Sha’ar HaNegev, a region situated along the Gaza border that became the epicenter of the October 7 attacks. This summer, we welcomed two delegations from the region to San Diego for respite and healing.
The first delegation was a group of young adults in their 20s and 30s—their pain was palpable. Many struggled with the guilt of having survived the events of October 7 when their good friends, and in many cases, family members either died or remain in captivity. The visit allowed them to escape the stress of living in a country at war and the constant sadness they face back home. Their itinerary was a mix of experiencing Jewish life in San Diego, pure tourist fun, and emotional healing. Everywhere they went, they were embraced—even at Petco Park during a Padres game, where local fans recognized the Jewish stars on their hats and shouted their support.
Our second delegation consisted of social workers from Sha’ar HaNegev’s Department of Social Services. Despite experiencing the fear, loss, and chaos of October 7 firsthand, these dedicated professionals continue to serve. The demand for psychological support services has risen by over 700% in the region, and as one social worker said, they have “filled themselves up with other people’s trauma,” leaving no room to process their own. We brought them to San Diego to help them find the emotional space to go back and keep doing their lifesaving work. Their days here were filled with enjoyable activities like cooking classes, kayaking, and private home dinners, thoughtfully paired with healing sessions, including group therapy, sound baths, and equine therapy.
These delegations were more than a gesture of friendship; they demonstrated the strength and depth of our long-standing partnership with Sha’ar HaNegev. Our connection has always been about mutual support and shared values, but this year, the context was profoundly different due to the events of October 7 and the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
The visits also emphasized the vital role we play in fostering healing for our brothers and sisters in Israel. Knowing that the San Diego community cares has been a source of comfort. As one social worker put it, “We now feel as though we always have a home in San Diego.”
As we look to the future, Federation remains committed to strengthening the ties between San Diego and Sha’ar HaNegev. These delegations have demonstrated that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, the spirit of resilience and connection can prevail.
Heidi Gantwerk is President & CEO of Jewish Federation of San Diego. Learn more at www.jewishinsandiego.org.
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