Apr 17, 2024

Older Adults Find Purpose and Peace of Mind Through Coordinated Relief Activities

The idea of living in a hotel may sound like a 24/7 vacation, but that is far from the truth for displaced older adults forced to abandon their homes for hotels in the aftermath of October 7. Federation overseas partner the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), in conjunction with the Israeli government, is ensuring these individuals who had to leave their loved ones, communities and daily routines are not forgotten. “In the beginning of the war, we noticed that most volunteering activities were focused on children, youth and young people and, somehow, the elderly were left behind,” said Michal Meir Sa’ar, JDC’s Relief Activity Coordinator. Now, daily activities, workshops, exercise classes, arts and crafts sessions and more are being offered in dozens of hotels in Eilat, providing purpose, peace of mind, and most importantly, a support system of other individuals who have lived through the same unimaginable circumstances. “You cannot compare the people I first met early in October and November to the people we see here today,” added Sa’ar. Click here to watch a short video about the activities and how they are helping.