The Nova Tribe Community Association, established following the October 7 tragedy at the Nova music festival, has announced a heartfelt initiative: a one-time memorial grant of 3,000 shekels (approximately $800) to each of the 410 bereaved families who lost loved ones in the massacre. The grant is intended to support families in their efforts to commemorate their loved ones and express the community’s commitment to preserving their memory.
In an emotional letter sent to the families, the association wrote:
“Dear families, we embrace you in your pain and hope that this grant will ease, even slightly, your journey of remembrance. We invite you to apply for the grant, which is intended to honor their memory and ensure that their legacy continues to shine for future generations.”
A special assistance committee has been established within the organization, consisting of a social worker and a board member, to review and respond to exceptional requests.
Personalized Memorial Support
“We are committed to helping families where gaps exist, and the need for memorial-related funding has become clearly evident,” said Rif Peretz, chair of the Nova Tribe Community Association. “These grants are meant to give each family the tools to honor their loved ones in a way that reflects their personal worldview. We avoid making decisions on behalf of families regarding how their loved ones should be commemorated.”
Ongoing Support Activities
This new grant joins the broader efforts of the Nova Tribe Community Association, which continues to support bereaved families, released hostages, and survivors of the festival. The organization holds community days, helps facilitate access to employment and education, and organizes educational events and workshops designed to assist in returning to daily life.
In addition, the association is involved in developing a permanent memorial at the Re’im site to ensure the victims’ memory lives on.
In 2024, the organization supported more than 220 different memorial events and initiatives. They hope to reach all families in need in the coming year.
