A True Friendship

The Jewish Federations of North America Supporting Sapir College’s Community

On October 7, the Sapir community suffered a severe blow in the brutal attack by Hamas. Since then and in the subsequent war, over 30 students, alumni, staff and member of the board of trustees along with their family members were murdered, injured or kidnapped. About 1,500 students and staff living in Otef Yisrael/Gaza Envelope communities were forced to evacuate their homes. They were dispersed throughout the country in temporary accommodation. In addition, 1000 students were called up for active reserve duty-miluim.

As a result of the horrific attacks and the onset of the war, Sapir immediately established an Emergency Trauma Treatment  and Basic Needs Fund. This fund would have not been possible without the Jewish Federations of North America, who granted a significant and generous donation of $1,000,000; together with other dedicated philanthropic partners from overseas and Israel. Due to these steadfast donors, the  College was able to raise the needed funds to assist students and staff.  

Sapir, is located 2 miles from the Gaza border. To date, the campus remains closed for most student activities and classes. Despite the war, the College opened the 2023-2024 academic year, online, on December 24, 2023.  To prevent drop out,  many of Sapir’s students need help to acquire laptops. A variety of Israeli and global companies donated computers for our students, enabling them to participate in their degree courses. Sapir’s Bedouin community students, both in the Mechina and academic programs, are particularly vulnerable, not equipped financially to buy the required equipment to continue their studies. The Jewish Federations of North America gifted Sapir an additional grant of $39,425 to assist in the purchase of 75 new laptop computers for disadvantaged Bedouin community students.  The return of students to Sapir’s campus will take place very gradually over the spring and summer semesters. Courses will be offered a hybrid format, with continuing online classes.

Sapir student’s faculty and staff are extremely appreciative of the dedication and commitment of the Jewish Federations of North America. This exemplary friendship is extremely meaningful, as the events of  October 7th and the war continue to impact Israel and  North America.

Thank you!