ABOUT SOUNDS THAT STARTLE

There is currently a pressing need for mental health resources in Israel. To address this need, Ben-Gurion University Canada is launching a special High Holidays and Sukkot campaign – Healing Children Through Words. Donations of $100 or higher will receive a copy of the book, Sounds that Startle, authored by Lilach Kipnis Z”L. Lilach, a dedicated BGU alumna and social worker in the Gaza Envelope, was tragically murdered on October 7th at Kibbutz Be’eri.

Originally written in 2021 to help children navigate the trauma of conflict, it remains a vital source of hope and healing today.

Note: Orders for Sounds that Startle will be mailed out to the address you provided within the next week. 

LILACH’S STORY

Lilach lived with her family in Kibbutz Be’eri. On October 7th, 2023, residents of the Kibbutz were brutally attacked and murdered by terrorists. Lilach was among the victims, along with her partner, Eviatar Kipnis z"l, his caretaker Paul Castelvi z"l from the Philippines, and Lilach’s brother-in-law, Avshalom Haran z"l.

Lilach dedicated her career as a social worker to helping children affected by trauma, particularly those living near the Gaza Envelope. In 2021, she authored a children’s book addressing anxiety titled, Sounds that Startle, drawing from her experiences working with children amidst the backdrop of frequent rocket launches. 

Lilach’s son, Nadav, who was raised in Kibbutz Be’eri, hopes to extend the reach of this book that aided him during his formative years.

WHERE THE MONEY GOES:

Your donation will help provide critical services to Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) students, staff, and Negev residents healing from the trauma suffered following the terror attacks.

The university urgently requires additional mental health professionals, counseling services, and programs to support the university and Negev communities. The funds raised through this campaign will enable BGU to hire clinical psychologists, hotline therapists, social workers, and other key staff. Additionally, these funds will help create a comprehensive support network through the development and implementation of essential services.