SafeHeart sets up ‘Safe Space’ at Re’im for Nova survivors and bereaved families
Trauma-care NGO offers on-site therapy and emotional support at two-year commemoration of 7 October
Israeli trauma NGO SafeHeart has established a “Safe Space” at Re’im, the site of the Nova music festival massacre, to support survivors and bereaved families during this week’s two-year memorial events.
Run in partnership with the Ministry of Health, National Insurance Institute, and Trauma Coalition, the initiative provided a therapeutic refuge for those attending the ceremonies, many of whom continue to live with the psychological wounds of the 7 October 2023 attack.
Efrat Atun, SafeHeart’s CEO, said:“This is the second year we’ve established a Safe Space at Re’im… to be an anchor for those who need it, offering a listening ear and a kind heart on this difficult day of remembrance.
“Although two years have passed since 7 October, time feels frozen. The trauma is still alive every day, and the hostages remain in Gaza.
“At SafeHeart, together with all the civil organisations, we are here — united for the families and survivors. You are not alone.”
Jenny Sividia, a Nova survivor and sister of the late Shlomi Savidia, helped lead the support activities.
“Bereaved families and survivors attend, and exposure to the stories can trigger emotional responses,” she said. “Even visitors with no personal connection can become overwhelmed simply by being exposed to the families and their stories. They need a listening ear and professional assistance to help calm and restore balance.”
Psychologist Dr Nir Soffer Dudek, who has volunteered with SafeHeart since the attacks, added:
“Being here at Re’im today with the families and survivors is part of a much longer process — one that began two years ago and will continue for twenty years ahead.”
Founded on 7 October, 2023, by Israeli trauma therapists, SafeHeart has delivered more than 40,000 hours of free therapy to over 1,000 survivors and relatives — the largest initiative of its kind in Israel.
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