Stronger Together

“I have dedicated 16 years to working in our southern factories, consistently attending work even during periods of military operations. Now this is really a war!”, Tells Denis Poni, Production Manager at the Bror Hayil Factory.

I live in Netivot, and my parents are in Sderot. “Anticipated with great joy, Simchat Torah on Saturday, October 7th, turned out to be one of the most difficult days of my life.

As the alarms blared at 6:00 AM, we rushed to the bomb shelter, while being flooded with distressing messages and videos of terrorist attacks. I immediately recognized that it was filmed in the parents’ neighborhood in Sderot. I repeatedly tried calling them, and the family WhatsApp group was filled with concern. In the afternoon, we finally reached them as they had been at the shelter without reception all day. Only on Sunday were we able to pick them up from Sderot.

I couldn’t sleep these days. My son, Ilai, struggled with alarms, triggering anxiety. The influx of videos and stories rekindled old traumas. Concern for our factory workers weighed on me. I only allowed myself to cry, hurt, fear, and mourn dear friends who were murdered at night.

In the first week, I joined my parents in Eilat, where they had evacuated. My purpose was to be with them and provide support following the challenging experience they had endured. But it was hard for me! I continued communicating with my staff, and when they announced the gradual reopening of the Bror Hayil Plant, I knew I had to be there with them. This is my second family!

On Sunday, I revisited the factory, and despite occasional moments of feeling a bit worn down, I am significantly better. I am active, find meaning, and am surrounded by loved ones in my hometown, where I grew personally and professionally—a second home to me.

The factory workers express a sense of comfort and safety when provided with protection. They appreciate that employment at Strauss offers them a sense of security, providing them with breathing space. The camaraderie within our unique factory further strengthens their bond.

Though challenging, I firmly believe in the power of positive thinking to shape one’s reality. We must envision a brighter world, one filled with security and peace, amidst the darkness. The profound bond forged among our people in the country is the key to our collective victory. Amen!”