Dear Friends,
Since the devastating Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, Israel has faced one of the most difficult periods in its history. The war that followed displaced over 100,000 residents from the north and south and has caused the tragic loss of thousands of lives and left deep emotional scars—especially for families still waiting for the return of hostages held in Gaza. Life across the country—and particularly in Jerusalem—has been profoundly disrupted.
Now, 20 months later, Israel is facing a new and dangerous escalation—this time on the Iranian front. Missiles are being aimed at major cities, including Jerusalem where an astounding 76% of residents’ homes lack safe rooms or bomb shelters, leaving thousands vulnerable. The country has re-entered a state of emergency. Schools and businesses are closed. Residents are urged to stay near bomb shelters.
Jerusalem is the largest and most diverse city in Israel with complex community groups including, Jews and Arabs, Secular and Religious and all faith groups.
The Jerusalem Foundation continues to respond and adapt to urgent and emerging needs and I wanted to share a brief update about the situation in the city and some of our planned activities. In support of the people of Jerusalem.
Arik Grebelsky, President
The Jerusalem Foundation
The Jerusalem Foundation continues to respond and adapt to urgent and emerging needs. Among the most pressing:
Jerusalem Community Centers – Community centers across the city are vital hubs of support, providing access to public shelters, emotional and physical care, food deliveries, and enrichment activities—both online and in person—for vulnerable residents and children. Increased funding is essential to sustain and expand these efforts.
Welfare, Health & Community Support – In partnership with the Municipality, local organizations are delivering food, mental health care, and shelter services, while also supporting single mothers, people with disabilities, refugees, and others without family support. These programs offer both immediate relief and a sense of stability, but continued operation depends on sustained funding.
Support for East Jerusalem – Community initiatives in East Jerusalem are tackling urgent needs: cleaning and preparing neglected bomb shelters, distributing emergency supplies, and providing therapeutic support, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and children. Culturally adapted mental health programming and resilience workshops in Arabic are also underway.
Cultural Relief Programming – Jerusalem’s cultural institutions are offering uplifting, accessible programming to foster connection and calm. Initiatives include shelter performances, free concerts, online workshops, and museum access for evacuees and the broader public.
Education System Partnerships – With schools online, enrichment programs have moved to digital platforms. From live math lessons and interactive nature sessions to workshops in VR and AI, these programs support both academic continuity and emotional well-being. As summer nears, demand for such programming will only grow.
We pray for an end to this prolonged emergency, the safe return of hostages, and lasting peace for Israel and Jerusalem. Your support at this critical time is deeply appreciated.