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For over 40 years, ELI, the Israel Association for Child Protection, has been a beacon of hope for children suffering from abuse and violence. In the aftermath of the October 7 attacks in Israel, the organization’s role became more crucial than ever.
As the sole entity addressing all forms of violence against children—physical, sexual, mental, and neglect-related—ELI has faced unprecedented challenges with remarkable resilience and efficiency.
Immediate Response to Crisis
When the October 7 attacks shook Israel, ELI’s response was swift and comprehensive. Eran Zimrin, the CEO of ELI, described how the organization sprang into action.
“We mobilized immediately, arriving at hotels where evacuated families were staying by Monday morning,” Zimrin recounted. The team, comprised of therapists and support staff, began providing immediate assistance to those affected by the violence.
During the initial weeks, ELI’s focus was on helping victims regain their basic functions. “We did not know what to expect. We sat in the hotels with four therapists in each hotel,” Zimrin explained. “During the first three weeks, we were trying to restore basic abilities to the victims, helping them to drink, eat, sleep, and communicate.”
This period was critical as the therapists worked to stabilize the victims’ emotional and physical states amidst the chaos.
Identifying Long-Term Needs
ELI’s intervention was not limited to immediate support. Over the course of three weeks, the organization’s therapists met with 2,000 victims. Through this intensive care, they identified 200 cases requiring long-term rehabilitation.
Zimrin shared, “There was a two-year-old boy who, during my three weeks at the hotel, refused to take off his shoes—day or night—in case he needed to run for his life.”
Such poignant stories underscore the deep trauma experienced by these children and highlight the need for personalized, ongoing care.
To date, funding has been secured for 180 of these long-term cases, covering one year of support. However, many of the cases will require extended care beyond the initial funding period. ELI’s ability to sustain this crucial support depends heavily on continued financial backing.
Ongoing Challenges and Community Involvement
Despite their tireless efforts, ELI faces substantial challenges in maintaining and expanding their services. Zimrin emphasized the importance of resources in their mission.
“A single social worker might be filled with good intentions but cannot provide help if she doesn’t possess resources,” he noted. The organization relies on donations and community support to fund their hotline, school-based programs, and long-term care initiatives.
The hotline, a vital component of ELI’s operations, ensures that every case is attended to without turning anyone away.
Additionally, ELI’s school-based awareness and prevention programs play a crucial role in fostering a culture of vigilance and protection across Israel. These programs educate children about their rights and provide tools to recognize and report abuse.
A Vision for the Future
ELI’s vision extends beyond immediate crisis response. The organization aims to create a safer, more compassionate society where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Their ongoing efforts include expanding their reach, enhancing program effectiveness, and forging community partnerships.
The support of the community and beyond is essential for ELI to continue its critical work. Donations help ensure that every child and family affected by violence receives the comprehensive care needed for healing and recovery.
As ELI navigates the complexities of child protection and trauma intervention, their dedication to creating a safer environment for children remains unwavering.
Call to Action
The stories of resilience and courage amidst the October 7 attacks highlight the critical role of organizations like ELI.
To sustain and expand their vital work, ELI calls on the community to provide support. Contributions can make a significant difference in ensuring that no child is left behind and that every victim receives the care and support they need to overcome their trauma.
For more information on how to support ELI and contribute to their mission, visit their website and learn how you can make a difference in the lives of Israeli children affected by the recent attacks.
By coming together to support ELI, we can help build a brighter future for the children of Israel, ensuring they have the opportunity to heal and thrive despite the challenges they face.