Israeli Cyber Company Veronis Converts Office Space Into Camp for Evacuees Amid War
In a heartwarming display of compassion and generosity, the Israeli cyber company Veronis, located in the high-tech community of Herzliya, made an extraordinary decision as the conflict in the region escalated. The company converted its office space into a temporary camp for 250 evacuees from Nitiv, Ofakim, Ashkelon, and Kiryat Shmona.
According to Guy Melamed, Vice President of Finance and Operations at Veronis, the idea was born out of a desire to do more than just collect donations for reservists. “We felt that something more significant should be done,” Melamed said. “We have very large and luxurious offices in Herzliya, so I contacted the Herzliya municipality and asked if there was a need for a free place for civilians. When they confirmed the need, we sprang into action and started organizing.”
The company quickly turned their office space into a place of refuge, complete with mattresses, blankets, and pillows for the evacuees. They also made special accommodations for religious needs, such as setting up a Shabbat elevator and providing food heating plates for Shabbat observers.
Despite initial distrust and fear from the evacuees, Veronis worked tirelessly to create a safe and welcoming environment for them. They provided meals, recreational activities, and even arranged for psychological and social support from the municipality of Herzliya.
As the conflict continued, the company faced the challenge of finding a suitable long-term solution. They eventually moved the evacuees to the NIX Hotel in Herzliya, initially covering the cost themselves. However, as the situation persisted, they turned to their employees for help, asking them to redeem payment for their days off in order to finance the stay of the evacuees in the hotel.
Within a day and a half, Veronis raised NIS 2 million from their employees, allowing them to extend the evacuees’ stay at the hotel by two weeks. The bond between the company’s employees and the evacuees grew stronger, and they pledged to stay in touch and continue providing support.
Melamed emphasized the emotional impact of the experience, saying, “An intimacy has been created between us. Anyone who wasn’t part of it won’t understand how much intimacy was created between us in this thing.”
As the conflict rages on, the remarkable efforts of Veronis serve as a shining example of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity.