Halema Salamah: A Palestinian Immigrant Who Built a Legacy of Generosity and Grit
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Siti’s Stories , I share the incredible life of my grandmother, Halema Salamah Gaber. Her story is a testament to the spirit of resilience, determination, and boundless generosity.
Highlights from the Episode:
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A Journey Across Oceans:
- Halema's family's journey to America began with a twist of fate at Ellis Island, leading her father to military service in 1914 where he cut onions and peeled potatoes on a military boat. This unexpected turn granted them American citizenship even before Halema was born.
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Arriving with $37:
- In 1960’s, Halema came to America with only $37 in her pocket. She hustled tirelessly, working until she and my grandfather could open their own business and achieve the dream of becoming their own bosses and generational wealth.
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Real Estate and Resilience:
- Halema invested in real estate at the perfect time, building her way up from humble beginnings to a successful and thriving business, all while remaining true to her roots and values.
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Brothers Produce – A Family Legacy:
- Halema and her family established Brothers Produce , a Middle Eastern grocery store that became a cornerstone in the community. What began as a family business flourished into a legacy; providing fresh produce, familiar tastes, and a space for community connection. For decades, Brothers Produce stood as a symbol of hard work, resilience, and the spirit of giving back.
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A Legacy of Generosity:
- Known for her unwavering generosity, Halema dedicated her wealth to giving back to her Palestinian community supporting hospitals, schools, mosques, and shelters both in New Jersey and overseas, even after her passing.
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Advice for the Next Generation:
- Despite being illiterate, Halema believed deeply in education, hard work, and saving money. Her advice to younger girls remains a beacon of wisdom: "Get an education, save your money, and work hard."
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A Life Well-Lived, A Legacy Remembered:
- Halema passed away this past September, but her legacy of resilience, hustle, and community impact continues to be felt, having streets named after her and scholarships in her name.
This episode is a tribute to her life, her sacrifices, and the powerful example she set for us all. This story isn't just about one woman, it’s about the strength of Palestinian women, the power of perseverance, and the deep roots of generosity that shape our communities. I recorded this episode as my very first one when I first got the idea for Siti’s Stories , and I’m honored to share her legacy with you.
🔗 Visit
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for more episodes and to share your own stories.Episode 7 was my own personal episode where I shared more about both of my grandmothers.
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