As Israel faces rising threats, residents of Tel Aviv are finding comfort in the solidarity and support of volunteer-run shelters established in response to the ongoing regional instability. Underneath the city of Tel Aviv, in Dizengoff Center, civil efforts led by volunteers have emerged as crucial lifelines for local families and residents.
Brothers and Sisters in Arms movement, initially formed during the judicial reform protests, has evolved their role in Israeli society since the October 7 attacks, later expanding to provide crucial civil aid operations.
Ronen Koehler, 61, who is organizing the organization’s humanitarian effort in Dizengoff Center, emphasized the rapid response to the community’s needs, particularly in Tel Aviv.
When missiles struck near the American Embassy and prompted widespread concern, Koehler and his team quickly mobilized, setting up tents, distributing mattresses, and providing food and mental health support.
Koehler told The Jerusalem Post that after the strikes that destroyed hundreds of homes across central Tel Aviv, showing the force presented by ballistic missile fire, and the dangers at hand if not in an official protected space.
“On Tuesday morning, we sent someone to Jerusalem to collect mattresses and tents from a warehouse. By 1:00 PM, we were unloading the supplies, and by 5:00 PM, hundreds of people from the mall and the surrounding area had come in, looking for shelter,” Koehler recalled.
Now, several floors underground, people of all ages and their pets have “moved in,” feeling more comfortable and secure in case of missiles crashing in the city. Tents are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with new people arriving daily. Children played, riding scooters as if on their home street without a care in the world.
Shelters have over two hundred volunteers
Over 200 volunteers registered for 24/7 shifts, with community organizers working closely with World Central Kitchen to provide sandwiches to those affected. The shelters, which are designed to be safe and comfortable for families, also offer a dedicated "Kids Corner" where children can engage in play and reading.
"There were many families here, and we made sure they felt comfortable. Young couples with kids, elderly people with no place to go — they all came, and we helped them settle in," Koehler added.
Within the shelter are residents of all ages, seeking safety. Rachel, a woman in her late 70s who has been staying in the underground shelter, found refuge with her caregiver, Adelyn, 41, from the Philippines.
Adelyn told the Post that she has been working in Israel for years and has been with Rachel for the last five years. Rachel, accompanied by her dog Bibi, arrived at the shelter on Saturday and has remained there, expressing gratitude for the safety and comfort it provided during these uncertain times.
“We are safe here,” Rachel told the Post, “but I just want to go home.” As she lay on a mattress on an elevated surface, providing maximum comfort, she kept her siddur, or prayer book, by her side.
Rachel said that there’s nothing for her to do other than rest and go for mall walks in her chair with her home care worker.
Her caregiver, Adelyn, told the Post that coming to the shelter was the best move for them because otherwise, there would be the added stress of looking after Rachel in such an unstable environment. “This morning, I was home, making food for Rachel, and the bombing started. I rushed here with Rachel because it felt safer,” Adeline shared.
The shelter also allowed Rachel and others to find peace in the chaos. “It’s comfortable here,” Adelyn said. “We stay in the shelter because it’s safer, and Rachel is more at ease with everything. There are fewer worries about the bombing here.”
This community-driven effort showcases the resilience of residents and the importance of volunteers during moments of heightened security concerns. Koehler also told the Post that organizers are in the process of opening the same shelter operation at Habima Square, as well as the Central Bus Station in south Tel Aviv, to provide further reach to all who need it.
“These are just people doing what’s needed,” Koehler said. “We’re not waiting for threats to materialize. We’re preventing them. And we’re here to help — from feeding people to ensuring they have a place to rest. That’s the mission.”
As tensions persist, these shelters remain crucial for many in Tel Aviv, offering safety, food, and a sense of security in the face of uncertainty. This effort reflects a broader trend of volunteerism and mutual aid that have become essential to the social fabric of Israel during these turbulent times.