We recently shared the story of Itay Mevorach, the proprietor of the Green Pub, a beloved gathering spot in Kibbutz Nir Am, located in the Gaza envelope. Once a joyful place where couples met and friends came together, the Green Pub had been shuttered since its community suffered devastating losses on October 7th, when many of its regular patrons were abducted or killed.

In the aftermath of that tragic day, Itay and his family, along with others from Nir Am, relocated to a Tel Aviv hotel, where the pub temporarily resumed operations to offer grieving survivors a sense of comfort and normalcy. Meanwhile, the original venue at the kibbutz remained closed and in disrepair.

Now, thanks to the help of Birthright Israel volunteers, the Green Pub has undergone a remarkable transformation. Volunteers worked tirelessly to clean, paint, and breathe new life into the space. The Green Pub has officially reopened, standing as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal for the community. The reopening coincided with the second night of Hanukkah, and Birthright Israel participants joined the Nir Am community to light the menorah in the newly restored pub.

At the poignant reopening, Itay expressed heartfelt appreciation for the volunteers. “Birthright was there for us during our lowest moments, offering immense support,” he said. “They brought the pub back to life. The Green Pub will forever be a home for Birthright.”

Birthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark, who was in attendance, reflected on the significance of the reopening: “The Green Pub is a testament to the courage and resilience of the Jewish people. We are proud to have played a role in helping the incredible community of Nir Am rebuild this cherished space and bring light back to its young people.”

The restoration of the Green Pub is part of Birthright Israel’s broad commitment to Israel in times of need. Beyond restoring the pub, Birthright has supported the Nir Am community by planting a grove of over 300 trees and assisting displaced residents as they return to their homes after many months away.

Last week, Birthright Israel hosted a series of special Hanukkah events across Israel to mark the lighting of the second candle. Over 10 groups participated in separate celebrations, joining communities in meaningful acts of connection and solidarity. They lit candles with Navy soldiers and residents of Gaza envelope communities such as Kerem Shalom and Ptolemy Yosef. Others visited Paralympic athletes and brought joy to hospitalized children at Schneider Children’s Hospital, where they distributed sufganiyot and participated in arts and crafts activities with the children.

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, Birthright Israel is proud to continue its mission of strengthening the bonds within the Jewish community and supporting the people of Israel. This winter, we expect to welcome 6,500 young adults to Israel and 10,000 participants to volunteer programs in the northern and western Negev. Since November 2023, Birthright has brought 20,000 young adults to Israel for educational tours and volunteer projects.

The reopening of the Green Pub stands as a renewal of hope, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder of the unbreakable bonds within the Jewish community.

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