December 8, 2023.
Dear Friends of Neve Hanna,
Neve Hanna Children’s Home was busy preparing for the Chanukah party. But before I tell you more about it, here’s a quick word regarding our status. The children from Rahat, who visit the Path of Peace, are for some time now coming in again. Unfortunately, we still can’t say that for some of the daycare children from Ashkelon, because the rocket attacks on this city continue, so the authorities and we agreed: we do not take such a risk. It is only a replacement, but these children and families are looked after very closely by our social workers. Otherwise, we go about our routine adapted to the new reality and realize more and more: in this situation, therapy must take priority.
The big Chanukah party took place yesterday. As always, this year’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah children appeared first. But of course, the Shinshinim (Israeli volunteers) as well as the employees put on a performance that – how could it be otherwise – thematically picked up the current situation. We were missing this year’s volunteers, but could screen a clip with greetings.
All in all, a lot of singing and laughter, our Chanukah light scared away the darkness! And then there were the children´s eyes lit receiving the gifts. Each child received the desired gift, a warm winter home suit, a book, and some sweets. It was a beautiful evening, an evening that once again strengthened us as a community.
And with that in mind, we wish everyone
Happy Chanukah!!!
Sincerely for today,
Antje C. Naujoks, Public Relations and Resource Development
Neve Hanna Children’s Home, Kiryat Gat, Israel
American Friends of Neve Hanna 