Feb 1, 2024

Supporting Israeli Children After 10/7

After a scared and lonely two months following the attacks of October 7, Yehuda, a bespectacled Israeli boy impacted by epilepsy, was able to rejoin his group therapy, thanks to an empowering gift from Simcha Layeled. The nonprofit is one of 12 organizations prioritizing the needs of Israeli children affected by the war that is receiving grants from the Jewish Federations of North America's Israel Emergency Fund. The national effort has surpassed $775 million, with the Greater Miami Jewish Federation raising more than $29 million. Personally delivered by Jonathan, Yehuda’s madrich (instructor), the Replacing Pain With a Smile Encouragement kit included games, a recipe and ingredients for hot cocoa, a movie available to stream and other treats, and is part of the comprehensive support provided to hundreds of disabled and seriously ill Israeli children. Best of all, Jonathan also brought a warm hug and a listening ear. According to Israel’s Ministry of Education, 48,000 children age 18 and younger have been evacuated from their homes since October 7. From daycare for preschool-age evacuees and temporary schools for displaced students to long-term trauma treatment for those who witnessed the worst of humanity at the hands of Hamas, vital children’s services and care continue to be fueled by Federation support.