Samaritan’s Purse, a U.S.-based Christian humanitarian organization, has been making a significant impact in Israel’s war-torn regions, providing critical relief to communities devastated by ongoing conflicts with Hezbollah and Hamas. The organization has been delivering armored ambulances, constructing trauma centers, and working to restore hope and safety to areas still reeling from attacks. Edward Graham, the group’s chief operating officer and grandson of Rev. Billy Graham, recently visited Israel’s northern and southern borders to engage directly with survivors, soldiers, and local leaders. He emphasized the group’s commitment to operating in the most dangerous areas, stating, ‘We go where other people don’t or won’t.’ This statement highlights Samaritan’s Purse’s unique role as a faith-based organization that combines humanitarian aid with a strong sense of purpose and resilience.
During his visit, Graham assessed the situation in Arab al-Aramshe, a northern Israeli village hit by Hezbollah missiles and drones. Despite the destruction, he noted the ongoing efforts of the community to rebuild and restore normalcy. The village, which saw significant damage from a deadly drone strike, is now receiving support from Samaritan’s Purse through the construction of a new ambulance station in the nearby town of Shlomi. This initiative aims to provide immediate relief while also building long-term resilience. Graham also highlighted the broader context of the conflict, noting that many communities are still in the process of recovery and that the organization is working to ensure that these areas receive the necessary resources and support.
In addition to medical aid, Samaritan’s Purse has been working to establish safe ambulance exchange points, where medical teams can store and access ambulances quickly. These stations are crucial for communities that are still in a state of emergency, as they allow for faster response times and better coordination among medical services. The organization has also delivered 42 armored ambulances to Israel’s national emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA), which are being used to provide critical care in some of the most affected areas. One of these ambulances has already been assigned to Arab al-Aramshe, providing much-needed relief to a community that is still recovering from the devastation.
Amid the ongoing conflict, local leaders have also been working tirelessly to rebuild their communities. Moshe Davidovitz, mayor of the Matte Asher Regional Council and head of the Northern Conflict Zone Forum, has been vocal about the need for safety and stability in the region. He emphasized that while many people have been displaced, the community continues to strive for a return to normalcy. Despite the ongoing threats, he expressed hope for the future, stating, ‘We want to grow the place … but we need to be able to provide some safety.’ His words reflect the determination of communities that are still recovering from the attacks and the collective effort to rebuild their homes and lives.
The organization’s efforts extend to the Gaza Strip, where it is working to establish a network of safe ambulance exchange points and bomb shelters. These initiatives are designed to mitigate the impact of ongoing attacks and to ensure that medical personnel can operate in a more secure environment. Samantha’s Purse is also building a resilience center in the Eshkol region and another in Merhavim, a town home to approximately 4,000 children who have experienced significant trauma. The goal of these centers is to provide a safe space for children and families to begin the process of recovery and healing. This focus on children highlights the organization’s commitment to addressing the long-term effects of conflict, particularly on vulnerable populations.
The impact of Samaritan’s Purse’s efforts is evident in the stories of individuals like Sara Kleiman, a mother who returned to her home months after fleeing Hezbollah rocket attacks. She and her 5-year-old son made the difficult decision to return, emphasizing that their home is where they belong. Despite the risks, they are focused on rebuilding their lives and restoring a sense of normalcy to their community. These personal stories underscore the broader humanitarian mission of Samaritan’s Purse, which is not only about providing immediate relief but also about helping communities rebuild and heal.
The organization’s work is deeply rooted in its faith-based mission, which drives its commitment to serving communities in need. Edward Graham, as a representative of this faith-based approach, has emphasized the importance of compassion and resilience in the face of adversity. His statements and actions reflect a broader message of hope and solidarity with the people of Israel, who continue to face immense challenges in their efforts to recover from the conflict. Samaritan’s Purse’s role in this ongoing effort highlights the importance of humanitarian aid in times of crisis and the power of collective support and resilience in rebuilding communities after conflict.