Communities2gether

Pittsburgh and Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak Unite for Hope

Released hostage Mia Leimberg with her father and dog who was with her during the captivity (Nir Yitzchak)

Rebuild, Heal, Inspire

Communities2Gether is part of the larger, national initiative launched by the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), designed to foster direct support and collaboration between U.S. communities and the Israeli communal towns that suffered the greatest losses in the October 7, 2023 attack. Pittsburgh has been paired with Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak, nestled in the Southern Gaza envelop, to help them in the difficult rebuilding process.

Key objectives of Communities2Gether include providing financial assistance and resources to aid recovery and rebuilding efforts as well as invigorating community engagement that strengthens the bonds and mutual understanding between our communities. Pittsburgh stands with Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak to send the message that they are not alone in this difficult time.

This initiative is a testament to the strength and resilience of our community partnerships and the global Jewish community’s commitment to support one another in times of need. We are grateful to every Pittsburgher who supports this crucial endeavor.

Two Dates, One Destiny

For the 560 members of Nir Yitzchak, two dates define their existence: October 7, 2023—the day they fled their homes—and July 7, 2024—the day they hope to return. All of the residents of Nir Yitzchak have been living in a crowded hotel near Eilat since the attack.

The Trauma That Lingers

While news outlets may have moved on, Nir Yitzchak still grapples with the aftermath of that horrific day. Rocket fire pierced the tranquility, terrorists infiltrated and flames consumed the plastics factory near the kibbutz entrance. The rapid response team—heroes in their own right—rushed to quell the inferno, only to fall into a deadly ambush set by Hamas.

Together, Always

When the IDF finally arrived, the kibbutz members boarded buses, bound for Eilat. They clung to each other, determined to remain a cohesive community. From one hotel to another in nearby Eilot, they transformed small rooms into makeshift homes—offices, living spaces, and kitchens. Their belongings—bikes, Kitchen Aid mixers, cherished memories—followed, bridging the gap between exile and home.

The Painful Threshold

Yet, returning to Nir Yitzchak remains a poignant struggle. The kibbutz lies just miles from Rafah, its fate entwined with the dismantling of Hamas’s military capabilities. Young families hesitate, haunted by memories. Older members yearn to return, but without without young families, there is no future for the kibbutz.

A Shared Commitment

Nir Yitzchak was established immediately after the founding of the State of Israel and, like many kibbutzim, secured the border of Israel. The State of Israel has no future without strong communities situated along its northern and southern border. Our Federation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them. Pittsburgh can make a real impact on this one kibbutz. Together, we ensure that when the members return, they find not just a kibbutz, but a beacon—a testament to hope, unity and unwavering pride.