Since being taken hostage by Hamas
BRING THEM HOME NOW
We demand the safe return of all citizens who have been taken hostage by the terrorist group Hamas. We will not rest until every hostage is released and returns home safely.
Ways You Can Help
Be in the Community:
- Attend daily prayer services: As a synagogue community, prayer is one of the ways in which we connect with God and one another. Join us virtually or in person for daily morning and evening minyan services (view our website calendar for times and Zoom links).
- Gather for Shabbat services: Every Friday evening and Saturday morning (view our website calendar for times and Zoom links).
- Meet with the Rabbi: To schedule an appointment, please contact Jill Rosner (jrosner@aasynagogue.org; 404.603.5741).
Be Charitable:
Find a charity that offers support in a meaningful way to you and your family, and be generous. The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta has started a campaign to support infrastructure rebuilding.
Reach Out to Local, State, and Federal Representatives:
Start emailing and writing to your elected officials, letting them know that we need them to stand with Israel and to be a courageous voice for us in the Halls of Government. Find your elected officials using this robust website.
Keep Up with What is Going On:
Stay informed by reading your preferred news, periodicals, or websites to keep up with what is happening and share this news with others.
Be in Touch with Your Israeli Friends and Family:
Our families and friends in Israel feel so alone. Make sure they hear from us. Send a text or an email. Ensure they know we stand with them and are working in the United States to send support.
How to Talk to Children
What to Say to Young Children:
Tell the truth, but keep it brief. You might say something like, "On Saturday, fighting started in Israel. There are a lot of people in Israel and in America who are working hard to end the fighting and keep everyone safe." Answer kids' questions honestly, but they don't need to know many details. Keep them away from news, social media, and podcasts that might scare them as much as possible. Assure them that they are safe.
What to Say to Elementary and Middle School Children:
Whether we tell them or not, our kids have likely picked up that something is going on. Ask your child what they know, and answer their specific questions with basic facts. Try to speak with nuance. Speak honestly about what is happening with your friends and family in Israel. Try to keep kids away from the news and social media. Encourage kids to come to you or other trusted adults with questions or for information.
Mental Health Support
If you or a loved one needs emotional support, JF&CS is available to help. Call 770.677.9399, text 678.460.9018, or email israelsupport@jfcsatl.org.
Resources
General:
- 10 Ways To Have Conscientious Conversations on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (ADL)
- Stand With Israel (ADL)
- Tips for Engaging and Disengaging on Social Media (ADL)
- Poems for Reflecting on the Israeli Palestinian Conflict (Moving Traditions)
- Situation Room (StandWithUs)
- Suggested Conversation Points (Boundless)
- Tools For Articulating Your Support For Israel Under Fire (Tribe Talk)
- Israeli Defense Forces Amazon Wish List (Atlanta Israel Coalition)
- US Consulate Web Page for Information and Support (Consulate General of Israel to the Southeast)
For Children:
- Trauma Resources (Child Mind Institute)
- PJ Library Israel Hub (PJ Library)
- Videos To Help Parents and Kids Talk About Scary Situations (PJ Library)
- Educational Resources: Israel at War (Lookstein Center)
- Israel at War: Prayers to Mark Ceremonies and Small Conversations With Your Students (The Jewish Education Project)
- How to Talk to Children about Israel Today (The Jewish Education Project)
- Processing Attacks in Israel and the Outbreak of War in the Region (Facing History and Ourselves)
- Teaching About Israel in Crisis (The Jewish Education Project)
- Responding to Crisis (Jewish Education Center of Cleveland)
- Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Families and Educators (National Association of School Psychologists)
- Terrorism and War: How to Talk to Children (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
- Here's How To Talk to Your Kids About the Violence in Israel and Gaza (Kveller)
- How to Talk to Kids About What's Happening in Israel Right Now (Kveller)
- How To Talk to Children About the Conflict in Israel (ReformJudaism)