Dear Friends,
We have now weathered the third week of rocket attacks. Compared to the north and central regions, things have remained relatively calm here. Yet this past weekend, due to rockets that were not intercepted—including some carrying cluster munitions—we were starkly reminded of the importance of using the shelters. In Neve Hanna, we take civil defense instructions very seriously, following them down to the smallest detail. We know that the shelters not only protect our children as best as possible, but also give them a sense of security, even though the emotional strain is palpable everywhere.
Purim, aside from some dressing up and small celebrations within our residential groups, had to be canceled. Our focus now turns to Passover. School holidays begin midweek, but only a handful of children living with us have received permission from the Ministry of Social Affairs to visit their parents temporarily. What Passover will look like is still uncertain, as civil defense instructions—which also guide the Ministry’s approvals—are updated every few days according to the current situation.
Regarding our after-school children, we can share that the Ministry gave the green light last week to resume picking them up in the afternoons to spend time at Neve Hanna, though most parents chose to keep their children at home.
For this week, we are, as always, planning our Panas-Rehov holiday initiative. Given the difficult security situation, the economic impact is particularly harsh for the most vulnerable of society. This time, we are preparing 120 packages filled with especially good food to bring some joy and relief to families. Of course, all of this is in full compliance with civil defense guidelines—for example, our youth will not be participating in the deliveries this time.
We are also pleased to report that two projects are making great progress. First, the expansion of our main building, which has been extended by an additional floor and whose entire interior is being renovated. Second, work has begun on the Haim Suzanna Memorial Garden. Below is what we shared on Instagram a few days ago about this.
With warmest regards,
Antje C. Naujoks
Public Relations and Resource Development
© Antje C. Naujoks, Neve Hanna Children’s Home
Haim Suzanna Memorial Garden – A Project Full of Heart
Some time ago, we began the construction of a memorial garden dedicated to our dearly missed colleague, Haim Suzanna, who passed away far too soon. At the start of the project, our director, Itzik Bohadana, invited Haim’s widow, Ricky—who is a devoted housemother of Neve Hanna—along with their three children. It was a deeply moving and emotional moment for everyone present.
As we shared in autumn 2025, we are relocating our stage—the heart of all celebrations at our children’s home—and creating a new garden around it in Haim’s memory. Haim was not only a beloved housefather at Neve Hanna, but also a gifted singer and radio host. He shaped the musical spirit of our performances and celebrations, accompanied the children at every opportunity, prepared performances, and often graced the stage himself.
In the future, we will gather and celebrate in this new space—a place where Haim’s presence will continue to be felt through creativity, music, and remembrance.
May his memory be a blessing.
American Friends of Neve Hanna 