A Palestinian Arab who lives in Samaria arrived at the Kalandia checkpoint on Wednesday together with her children. The family had no warm clothing on, they were starving and injured. They requested passage into Jerusalem. The border patrol officers at the checkpoint saw the state that the family was dressed in and approached the mother to inquire whether she would like to remain at the checkpoint in a warm enclosed space to rest and recuperate. They offered her and her children food and water as well as warm clothing before she went on her way.

The mother accepted the offer of the officers, who then brought her and her children into their office. There they fed the family and gave them warm blankets and clothing to wear.

One of the officers, who saw that the children were walking around in slippers, took up a collection from the other soldiers at the compound and purchased shoes for the children from a nearby store.

The mother, who was very moved by the actions of the officers, revealed that her husband abuses her and the children. “Thank you so much. I knew that if I make it to the checkpoint that I would find help here and that we would feel safe,” she exclaimed after she had calmed down a bit.

In addition to assisting the family on site, the officers alerted the police in the town where the family lives regarding the incident and the claim of abuse.

Just before the mother and children continued on their way, the officers gave them some parting treats. The mother thanked the soldiers again profusely and told them that this was one of the few times in her life that she and the children have felt safe and secure.  She added that it was also one of the first times she had seen her children smile in a very long time.

A representative of the Border Police stationed at Kalandia said: “It is our job to protect others and provide security to the public. But we see it as part of our responsibility, and a big part at that, to help others, such as this family in crisis, wherever we can.”

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)