What it is:
Reichman University opens its doors to 20 families from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, providing them with new housing in the institution’s dormitories after their homes were devastated by an attack from Hamas.
Why it matters:
This gesture represents not just a practical solution for housing needs but also an important act of solidarity and community support in the face of adversity. The university is embracing these families, integrating them into campus life, and offering a semblance of normalcy and stability amidst chaos.
The new beginning:
A symbol of hope and a warm welcome is evident at the entrance of the new residential building with a prominent sign stating, “Kibbutz Kfar Aza, how good that you have come.” The evacuees from Kibbutz Aza, who have been residing temporarily in Shfayim, will be the inaugural residents in the five-story apartment complex.
Facilities and Amenities:
These fully furnished apartments come complete with all the essentials of a home, including bedding, towels, kitchenware, electrical appliances, and decorations to make the transition as comfortable as possible for the evacuees.
University’s Commitment:
Professor Uriel Rehman, the founding president of the university, expresses a heartfelt welcome to the families and emphasizes the university’s commitment to their welfare and integration into campus life.
Community Engagement:
Rehman University extends an invitation to the evacuees to take an active part in campus life, such as attending lectures and participating in events.
Personal Reflection:
Liora Ayalon, a 70-year-old pioneer of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, shares her anticipation for a fresh start amidst the beauty of campus grounds. She reflects on the past and her determination to create a nurturing environment for her family despite the tragedies they have faced.
Hope for the future:
Embracing the support from the community, Ayalon looks forward to rebuilding family traditions and finding peace in the small joys, such as preparing meals for her grandchildren, amidst her new surroundings. This move marks a new chapter for those who have suffered unimaginable loss but are determined to move forward with resilience.
Concluding Thought:
The solidarity and support extended by Reichman University will provide much-needed relief and a sense of home for the Kibbutz Kfar Aza evacuees as they begin to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of violence.
This story was first published on jpost.com.