Meet the siblings who set up a café for soldiers in the South

Kobi, Eliran, and Dror Trabelsi started by setting up a small table with some coffee. Now, they serve 2,000 meals a day.

  (photo credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)
(photo credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)

The recent attacks against Israel have left Kobi Trabelsi and his brothers Eliran and Dror shocked and scared. However, like many Israelis, the Trabelsis have chosen to respond by devoting themselves to supporting the country in a time of need.

  (credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)
(credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)

The siblings set up a makeshift station at the entrance of the village, with Kobi taking charge of logistics. As the word spread, more and more soldiers began to visit the area, prompting the brothers to expand their operation into a comprehensive rest stop called "Shuva Ahim" (Return of Brothers). 

  (credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)
(credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)

Serving 2,000 meals a day

"Shuva Ahim" now offers a wide range of amenities, including clothing, toiletries, food rations, and drinks, all available around the clock. The Trabelsi brothers, with the help of their mother and other volunteers, prepare and serve approximately 2,000 meals a day to soldiers in need. What began as a small table for coffee has now become a large storage tent filled with essential items generously donated by the community.

  (credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)
(credit: COURTESY OF THE FAMILY, Shuva Ahim)

Their dedication has not gone unnoticed. The ZAKA volunteers passing through often express their gratitude for the Trabelsi family's unwavering support. Regular volunteers, such as Rami and Ricky Binyamin, Ariel and his wife Yifat, and a couple of teachers, offer their time and efforts to ensure the station remains open 24/7. However, the Trabelsis acknowledge that they could use additional help to sustain their efforts. Monetary contributions are welcome, but they also appreciate donations of clothing, equipment, and personal care items.