(Courtesy of Areyvut) After more than a year away from their homes, the evacuated residents of Shlomi, a northern Israeli town near the Lebanese border, are finally preparing to return—though with mixed emotions and lingering uncertainty. To honor their resilience and the deep bonds formed during their displacement, Areyvut organized and sponsored a heartfelt goodbye party at the Dan Boutique Hotel in Jerusalem, where these families have been living since October 16, 2023, after being evacuated due to Hezbollah rocket attacks.
The event was an emotional gathering centered around the themes of friendship, unity and resilience and filled with pizza, snacks and heartfelt speeches. Many of the Shlomi residents had never met before arriving at the hotel, yet over the past 16 months, they have become like family, supporting one another through an incredibly difficult period.
Areyvut’s founder and director, Daniel Rothner, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the Jewish value of collective responsibility, quoting: “כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה – All of Israel are bound to and responsible for one another.” (Shavuot 39a).
Rothner reflected on how the war has deepened his personal connection to Israel and its people. “I feel even more connected to עם ישראל, and I will continue to visit and help in any way I can,” he remarked.
The strength of the community was echoed by Rita Ben Yair, a Shlomi resident and advocate for the families, who shared: “The families of Shlomi have not only supported each other but have shown all of us the power of unity. Although our journey home comes with uncertainty, the connections we’ve built here will remain.”
As a final gesture of support, each family received a generous grocery gift card—sponsored by Areyvut—to help them restock their homes after so many months away. The evacuees expressed deep appreciation, not just for the gifts but for the unwavering support they received from Areyvut and the Jerusalem community.
“Though we are overjoyed that these families can return home, we will miss having them as our neighbors,” said Elana Kaplan, who helped organize the event on behalf of Areyvut. “This is not goodbye, but rather ‘להתראות’— our next gathering will be a סעודת הודיה (thanksgiving meal) in their rebuilt homes in Shlomi.”
As the Shlomi residents embark on the next chapter of their journey, one sentiment rang clear throughout the evening: Am Yisrael Chai!
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