By Janet and Irwin Tobin
We just returned from five months in Israel. Due to the war, we did not get to Neve Hanna as often as we would have liked. In fact, we were not able to bring back our usual suitcase filled with cookies and crackers from Yeladudes Bakery.
We were fortunate to get to Neve Hanna for the Purim Carnival and Lisa’s visit. We enjoyed the unbelievable Yom Hashoah program that Maya Amir, Director of Education and Cultural Programs, the volunteers, and some of the teenagers researched and put together. Luckily, we were also able to attend the B’nai Mitzvah Celebration on June 5, when 8 boys and 5 girls were called to the Torah. Rabba Rosenstaft Levy worked every day for several months to prepare the children, resulting in them doing very well.
Amidst all that was going on, our Director, Itzik Bohadana, Rabba Liron Rosensaft Levy, and our entire staff, and yes, our children, are doing remarkably well. It was so nice to see the children’s enjoyment in the new playground, using the equipment and playing basketball and soccer. The library is very popular. Children love to take out new books when they return their finished books. Most important is that each child has their own special time with a social worker and a psychologist.
The Youth Council was busy meeting to discuss what activities they wanted to have in the fall. They voted to continue the Hip-Hop program.
The Streetlight Chesed Group decided which Tikkun Olam projects they would do for the needy families in Kiryat Gat. Some former Neve Hanna children who are soldiers in the IDF are spending R&R time at Neve Hanna. A special apartment has been set up for them, and one of the social workers is always available to help with their wartime concerns. It is common for former NH children to return for celebrations and holidays as well. Neve Hanna is their family.
Thanks to our director, and our superb staff, and all of YOU, our board, friends, and dedicated donors, we have built a strong, resilient community at Neve Hanna. The children are finding strength in unity, faith, and in our Jewish traditions. The AFNH leadership is once again saying, thank you for your generous support and commitment to the future and well-being of NH children. The Neve Hanna family greatly appreciates the life-changing donations we have been able to provide. At this time, let us pray for peace and for the safe return of all our hostages. May your families enjoy a safe, peaceful, healthy, and enjoyable New Year.
Shanah Tovah Tikateivu,
Janet and Irwin Tobin
American Friends of Neve Hanna 