The Bender JCC reaffirms our unwavering support for Israel and condemns Hamas' heinous acts of terrorism.

The trauma of this moment is unlike any previously seen in Israel. At the time of this message, Israel is on its fourth day of war. On Saturday, October 7th, our community watched in horror as Hamas terrorists massacred families in their homes, slaughtered hundreds of young people enjoying a music festival, and brutally murdered or kidnapped elderly women, children, and entire families. Instead of celebrating the joyous Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah and the Sabbath in peace, Israel faced one of the deadliest days in its history. 

We stand in solidarity with our Israeli community members and Israeli staff who have made the Bender JCC and the Greater Washington Jewish Community their home away from home. We grieve with our community members and staff whose lives have been directly affected: their loved ones in Israel are under siege, deploying to the front lines, still missing, or gone. 

As a community of human beings of all abilities, backgrounds, identities, and religions, we understand that many Bender JCC members may struggle to comprehend the barbarity and scale of these grotesquely evil acts of terrorism. Please know we are here to support you - the Bender JCC will always be a safe home to you and your family. 

Together, we mourn the senseless murder of innocent civilian victims, including infants, young children, families, and the elderly.

We pray for the families who are learning the worst possible news about their loved ones, for a refuah shlayma (complete healing) for those wounded, and for a safe return to those missing.

In friendship and support,

Daryle Bobb, Board Chair

Josh Bender, Chief Executive Officer

The Bender JCC's response

In times of crisis, Jewish tradition reminds us to reconnect to “kehillah” (community). Community is the foundation of our lives. We hope the Bender JCC can be a safe gathering space and provide stability to our community in these trying and uncertain times.

Here's how: 

Additional security

There is no credible or known threat to our Bender JCC or the local Jewish community.

Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our readiness. Out of an abundance of caution, we have proactively contacted our security partners, including the Montgomery County Police, who will increase their presence at the Bender JCC during the coming days. 

Supporting Our Local Israeli Community:
Drop-in Gatherings for All at the Bender JCC

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays | 6:00 - 8:00 PM  | Wasserman Gym

The Bender JCC will open our classrooms and gym as safe and supportive gathering spaces for our Israeli members – and the entire community – to be together.

Please join us if you need a place to grieve, reflect, and support each other, or even take a break from the maddening news cycle with a workout or dip in our pool. We will also have recreational and sports activities planned for young children.

These gathering spaces are open to everyone. You do not need to be Israeli or even a Bender JCC member to attend. 

We welcome everyone to join us at these free gatherings, but for security purposes, we ask that you pre-register in advance with Maytal Regev:

Share messages of hope and solidarity in our lobby. 

The Bender JCC stands with Israel and invites our community members to share messages of hope, peace, and solidarity in our main lobby. 

Resources and Responses from
The Greater Washington Jewish Community

The Bender JCC joins the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, the Jewish Community Relations Council, and the global Jewish community in solidarity with Israel. 

For a complete list of events, funds, and resources supporting Israel:

Support the Relief Efforts

100% of your donation to Federation’s Israel Crisis Relief Fund will provide essential support for those in need, with aid distributed swiftly through the Federation's partners on the ground.

As the needs in Israel continue to evolve, donors like you are:
•    Training front-line professionals to meet unprecedented needs in real time.
•    Resettling nursing home patients from the conflict zone.
•    Expanding mental health interventions for children and at-risk youth.
•    Rehabilitating homes and buildings damaged by missile fire.
•    Coordinating volunteer efforts.
•    Providing food, water, and medical supplies to affected communities.