Mar 26, 2025

Celebrating Purim in Ofakim, Israel

Spirits were high in Ofakim, Israel, during a Purim celebration presented as part of a Federation-funded initiative to further recovery in the Southern District city. IDF reserve-duty families and security forces celebrated the holiday at the local youth center, with festively costumed children preparing mishloach manot (gift packages) as parents enjoyed coffee, pastries and a much-appreciated break. The Mashiv HaRuach (Reviving the Spirit) program works to build resilience, healing and sustainable recovery — essential since October 7. Ofakim, home to 30,000 residents, was the furthest place from Gaza attacked by Hamas on that fateful day.