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Apr 27, 2022

Hibuki Puppets Bring Comfort to Displaced Ukrainian Child

For nearly 20 years, Hibuki, a frowning stuffed puppy with extra-long, made-for-snuggling limbs, has brought comfort to more than 100,000 Israeli children traumatized by war, rocket explosions and terrorist attacks. Now this unique mental health tool, created by Federation overseas partner the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, is bringing relief to Ukrainian children running from war. Although the situations surrounding the children’s trauma are very different, their fears and anxieties are the same. As they bond with Hibuki, whose name loosely translates to “Huggy” in Hebrew, they project their feelings onto him and realize they aren’t alone. Soon enough, the children focus their attention on caring for the puppy rather than their own trauma. Numerous studies have proven the benefits of Hibuki in lessening the anxiety and depression in the children who receive them. While a puppet factory in Lviv has agreed to manufacture the puppets, in a remarkable act of chesed, Israeli parents are passing on their children’s Hibukis to a new group of children in need.

Welcoming Shlichim at Summer Camps

Welcoming Shlichim at Summer Camps

Despite a war with Iran, ballistic missiles and Israel’s closed airspace, this year’s delegation of summer camp shlichim (emissaries) is the largest ever.

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Helping People With Disabilities During Crises

Helping People With Disabilities During Crises

When emergency sirens blare in Israel, most people run quickly to safety in shelters, but for those with disabilities, this may be impossible, which is why Federation is funding essential programs that help during wars, terror attacks and more.

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Remembering the AMIA Attack in Argentina

Remembering the AMIA Attack in Argentina

Join Jewish Miami on Tuesday, July 22 for the Annual Commemoration of the tragic AMIA (Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina) Jewish Community Center bombing in Argentina 31 years ago.

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Hurricane Season Is Here

Hurricane Season Is Here

You can join the 2025 JVC Emergency Response Team (JVERT) to support our community if a disaster strikes.

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