As the conflict around Israel continues, some people in Columbia are searching for ways to feel more connected—turning to both creative expression and community action.

For one local resident, that connection comes through poetry. Michael Rubin uses her writing as a way to process what’s happening abroad while also speaking out.

“That’s my social activism,” Rubin said.

She said putting her thoughts on paper helps her feel closer to a conflict unfolding thousands of miles away.

“I think what’s most important is that we have to build bridges, and they have to start with personal bridges,” she said.

To build those bridges, Rubin has written three books of poetry: There Are Days That I Am Dead, And the Bones Stay Dry, and Your Stories Look Me in The Eyes. Each offering different stories and perspectives shaped by her reflections on global events. Through her work, she hopes to foster understanding and connection during a time of division.

While some people are turning to words, others in Columbia are taking action in different ways.

The Columbia Jewish Federation is assembling care packages in preparation for Passover.

“For the Jewish recruits at Fort Jackson and the Shaw Air Force Base as well,” said Jessie Dowsakul, the Columbia Jewish Federations executive director.

“And then for our (USC) students we have reached out to the greater Columbia community, for sponsor a student,” said Chaviva Sands, the director for Hillel at the Columbia Jewish Federation.

The care packages include kosher and traditional holiday foods—items that aren’t always easy to find on military bases or college campuses.

Leaders with the nonprofit said the effort is about more than just providing meals, it’s about offering comfort and a sense of belonging during an important time of year.

“They are missing their homes; Passover is a really sacred time in the Jewish community. It’s a time where you sit around a table and you spend hours going over Passover and talking about all of the different rituals and traditions,” Dowsakul said

They said the packages help remind recipients that they are not alone, even when they are far from home.

Efforts like these—whether through poetry or hands-on support—are helping people in Columbia cope with the realities of war overseas, one poem and one care package at a time.