By Nativia Bühler

For nearly five years, the ICEJ-supported Women’s Shelter has been more than just a refuge. It is a place where women fleeing trauma and violence can rediscover dignity and hope. Within its walls, stories of despair are slowly rewritten into testimonies of healing. Like planting a mustard seed and waiting patiently for it to grow, the staff walk alongside each woman, nurturing recovery with compassion, wisdom and faith.

Behind every door is a story unfolding. Many women arrive guarded and fearful, carrying deep emotional wounds. But through consistent care in an atmosphere of warmth and safety from the dedicated team, they gradually open to building friendships and take courageous steps toward rebuilding their lives.

Martha is an example of this transformation. She recently left the Shelter standing on her own two feet. She is now working and studying, and this new beginning was made possible because the Shelter was there when she needed it most.

Others are still on their path. Maya stayed more than a year. After leaving, her debts were miraculously cleared. Yet she continues to battle serious health issues and addiction. Despite this, she remains in close contact with the shelter’s long-time manager, who supports her ongoing recovery.

Betty, a current resident who was once emotionally fragile and struggling, now attends youth gatherings, participates in Shabbat services and travels weekly to study in another city. Her transformation shows what consistent love and structure can achieve.

Some women stay briefly, like Edith, who found refuge in December 2024 after living on the streets. Though she was transferred to a specialised facility, her short stay brought her dignity and hope.

Others require longer care. Inna returned in early 2024 for a fresh start and continues to live at the Shelter today, embracing its rhythms and healing environment.

Stories continue to unfold, like Yasmin, a young woman from northern Israel, who was found sleeping on a beach in Eilat after fleeing wartime trauma. A friend brought her to the Shelter, where she is now safe and slowly beginning to see that her life has value and purpose.

In June, Mira arrived, a survivor of domestic violence struggling with substance abuse. Initially shy and withdrawn, she now participates in Shabbat services and reads the Bible, eager to grow closer to God and others, an exciting breakthrough.

Just two weeks ago, Lana, 35, was welcomed after escaping violence. Her first words upon entering were: “Hello, my home!” in a great sign of relief. Days later, during a teaching on kindness, she recalled the Good Samaritan story her grandmother once told her, and she shared how strangers helped her when she was homeless. Her testimony brought tears to those listening.

Mina, another resident, arrived carrying no hope and deep emotional scars from legal troubles, debt and addiction. Yet small acts like planting flowers, cooking and decorating her room brought joy and connection. Not long ago, she shared:

“I am so grateful to you all and to God for this gift in my life, that I got to know you.”

Most women who come through the Shelter are survivors of domestic abuse, often carrying the weight of shame and self-doubt and numbed by pain. The staff, led by Tatyana, has learned to meet each woman where she is. When traditional rules failed, they reframed cleaning as “creating a cosy space,” inspiring the women to take pride in their surroundings by decorating their rooms.

Looking ahead, the team is preparing a new initiative to help women enter vocational training and equip them with practical skills to build stable futures after they leave.

Every woman’s story is unique. Some heal quickly, others return for additional support and many struggle. But new life continues to take root through shared meals, listening ears, prayers and hard-won victories.

Because of ICEJ’s faithful support, the Shelter continues to be a place of refuge and renewal — where healing isn’t just possible, it’s happening every day.

Thank you for supporting the ICEJ’s Future and Hope Fund.  

Main Image: Hannah Busing / Unsplash