In regions affected by dual conflicts, the support from Samaritan’s Wallet, a Christian humanitarian organization, plays a significant role. This US-based group actively helps those still living in fear, providing resources like armored ambulances and establishing trauma recovery centers right in the midst of chaos.
On June 2, Edward Graham, the Chief Operating Officer of Samaritan’s Wallet and grandson of the well-known Pastor Billy Graham, visited Israel, particularly focusing on areas caught in conflict, where tensions are high between northern and southern factions.
During his visit, Graham interacted with survivors, soldiers, and local leaders who are working to recover from recent strikes carried out by Hezbollah and Hamas.
He expressed his commitment to help, stating, “We’ll go where others won’t. Not just because we care, but because God cares.” This sentiment was particularly poignant during his visit to Arab Al-Aramshe, a village recently targeted in missile attacks. Noticing how these communities have largely been overlooked, he underscored the importance of support from Samaritan’s Wallet, which has built strong relations with local leaders and churches.
Graham remarked, “These communities are being attacked and often forgotten. But we haven’t forgotten them. We are here because these people are hurting.” The impact of recent violence is visible, with damaged infrastructure and loss of lives lingering in memory, and Samaritan’s Wallet is currently constructing a new ambulance station in nearby Shlomi to serve Arab Al-Aramshe and surrounding areas.
Graham highlighted the essence of their work: “We provide ambulances throughout Israel to support communities like this. Our goal is to create safe places for emergencies and help people regain a sense of safety.”
He also mentioned the significant evacuations that have occurred, noting that many have left their homes and are now displaced within their own country, uncertain about the fate of their belongings and loved ones. The organization has donated 42 armored ambulances to Israel’s national emergency services, enabling medics to respond more safely.
After his northern visit, Graham traveled south, addressing the devastation in areas like Nir Oz, where the scars of the recent conflicts are starkly apparent. The evidence of tragedy is omnipresent, with many lives lost during devastating attacks. Graham pointed out the persistent destruction and the need for hope as community leaders work tirelessly to rebuild.
Despite the overwhelming sorrow, there remains a strong desire for renewal. Mayor Michal Uziyahu of the Eshkol region, where many faced unimaginable loss, emphasized that fear will not define their community, stressing, “This place will be filled with life again.” Graham echoed her sentiments, finding strength in the resilience of survivors who, even amidst their suffering, expressed a desire for peace rather than hatred.
Samaritan’s Wallet is dedicated to establishing resilience centers in the region and two Emergency Medical Service stations to ensure prompt medical assistance in times of need. The organization has also set up numerous bomb shelters in both northern and southern areas of Israel to bolster community safety.
During his visit, Graham also encountered families like that of Sarah Kleiman, who returned home after fleeing conflict. She shared, “We try not to think about what will happen, but we wanted to go home. This is our home.”
