How does Home by the Sea support and strengthen vulnerable populations?
Home by the Sea supports vulnerable populations by combining professional trauma care with structured, ocean-based programmes delivered in safe, supportive group settings. Since its founding in 2020, the organisation has supported over 6,000 people across Israel’s coastline, including approximately 3,500 trauma survivors, 2,500 children and young adults with special needs, and 1,000 at-risk youth.
The organisation provides carefully designed programmes led by qualified therapists, certified surf instructors and trained volunteers. From 2023 onwards, Home by the Sea significantly expanded its trauma-focused work to support evacuees, bereaved families, hostage families and soldiers, while continuing programmes for families of children with special needs and at-risk youth. By harnessing the calming, grounding power of the sea alongside professional support and peer community, the organisation creates spaces where individuals can process trauma and rebuild confidence.
Every story matters
MEET RAUMA
Rauma, from Kibbutz Be’eri, entered the programme after her world was shattered on October 7. Her son was murdered and her daughter was abducted and later returned. Overwhelmed by shock, fear and grief, she joined a therapeutic bereavement group created for those facing this unimaginable loss.
Through weekly sessions in a structured, professionally facilitated framework, Rauma found support, not only in conversation, but also in the healing presence of the sea. Time spent in and beside the water became central to her recovery. The rhythm of the waves, the focus on breath and gentle movement and the physical grounding of the ocean helped calm a nervous system trapped in survival mode. When words felt impossible, the sea offered quiet relief – a space where her body could slowly release its tension.
Surrounded by others who deeply understood her pain, Rauma began to feel less alone. The group allowed her grief to be held with compassion rather than hurried or silenced. When the formal programme ended, she chose to remain connected through the alumni group. What began as therapy became community – an anchor that continues to support her as she rebuilds her life while carrying her loss.
