OUR FIRST VISIT TO NEVE HANNA

By Allan Gottesman, AFNH Board of Directors

Caren and I were in Israel in mid-June and we were able to visit Neve Hanna. Caren has heard me talk about Neve Hanna, but neither of us had visited. Now, we cannot stop talking and sharing about our visit. 

Antje Naujoks, PR Director, met us at the gate and sat us down for nosh and drink while telling us all about all the happenings at Neve Hanna. The first stop on our tour was the amazing Yeladudes Bakery. Dror, Head Chef, explained how the bakery works and informed us that the children can work at the bakery to earn some extra money. Of course, we left with delicious and easy to carry cookies.

The next stop was the new library. This library has a truly remarkable impact on the children – they are reading books, improving their reading scores and enjoying the space.  

Chaim Appel, Chairman of the NH Board, joined us as we continued to a building where groups of children live as a family.  Each flat, averaging 12 children, is staffed with an “Emma” and “Abba.”  They eat together, enjoy time together, do homework, watching TV etc.  Each child has their own space which gives them privacy. What a concept. 

Our last stop was the former field of the playground, torn down for safety issues. American Friends of Neve Hanna has an ongoing campaign to raise money to build a new, modern and safe playground. Please help them build the playground.

We were extremely impressed with the facility and the people that help to raise these children in safety and with love. It truly draws on your heart strings. We have been back in Florida for a few weeks and have not stopped telling everyone (even if they do not want to listen) about the important work being done at Neve Hanna.  

We are so happy that we went to visit. It was a truly incredible day.  We cannot stress enough that if you are in Israel you must go to Neve Hanna. Bring tissues.  

Allan is not only a board member of AFNH, he is also a Past International President of Federation of Jewish Men’s Club and one of the creators of the International Kiddush Club. IKC supplies Tefillin for the Neve Hanna Bar Mitzvah boys each year.