The quiet within the storm

About the Project: The reality around us is turbulent, and we’re constantly being hit with new difficulties. It seems that the ongoing state of conflict and hardship has become a survival routine, one in which we continue to live and act, yet carry pain and fears within us. Survivors of sexual violence face the double burden of personal trauma compounded by national trauma. They are experiencing heightened distress, anxiety, and challenges with coping, all of which require comprehensive professional support. The reality around us is constantly changing, and it’s hard to predict what tomorrow will bring. Amid this chaos, one thing remains constant: the Haifa and Northern Israel Sexual Assault Crisis Center—steadfast, attentive, and open-hearted. Since the outbreak of the war, even when it was unclear how to continue, we remained present for those reaching out to us.  We transitioned to Zoom, kept our hotlines running 24/7, created safe social spaces for survivors, and held prevention workshops for evacuated youth. No matter if it’s 2 a.m. or 6 a.m., in the darkest hours or at the break of dawn, we are always there for those in need. Our experience has shown that even in times of turmoil, sexual violence does not cease, it is simply pushed to the margins, less discussed, and receives less support.  And that’s why we’re here, continuing to support, guide, educate, and listen. "The Calm Within the Storm" was born from our commitment to be present for those who turn to us, especially when everything is in turmoil. It’s what we do, day after day: act as a small island of calm and stability for those whose worlds have been shaken. In the past year, we handled over 10,000 calls.  Over 11,000 youth from across the north have participated in our programs for safety education and preventing future harm, including evacuees from all over the region. We expanded written support lines, opened new courses, and deepened our activities in our branches in Afula, the valleys, Nahariya, and the Western Galilee. This campaign is our lifeline, enabling us to continue our work and not fold even in the most critical moments.  Your donation sustains us—so we can continue to support others. Because even amid chaos, there is one place that always remains stable: the Crisis Center. The listening ear, the shoulder to cry on, the outstretched hand—the calm within the storm.