During the war with Iran, as schools closed and sirens blared, thousands of Israeli teens have found a second home at Ohr Yisraeli, Migdal Ohr’s youth group network. With over 160 active branches across Israel, these groups became safe havens for at-risk youth — places where they feel protected, heard, and connected.
Many groups had to get creative in order to find protected spaces to meet relocating to offices, local community centers, schools, synagogues, and even bomb shelters. These casual hangouts were so much more than just something to do — they gave our youth perspective, kept their anxiety at bay, and helped them feel cared for during a time of national crisis when the adults in their lives had little time to pay attention to them.
A Miracle in Petach Tikva
One youth group in Petach Tikva recently experienced a true miracle. The beit midrash (study hall) where the teens gather was directly hit by a missile — yet, miraculously, no one was injured.
In response, to strengthen the youth and thank G-d for this protection, mentors went door to door giving out fresh challot, cakes, and a heartfelt letter of encouragement and blessing from Rabbi Grossman. That is how we build resilience!
This small act — a sweet treat, a few words of faith — helps our teens know they are never alone and that they are part of something bigger than themselves.
Thanks to you, these youth centers are in full operation during these long days of uncertainty. You’re giving thousands of teens a place to go, a caring mentor to talk to, and a community that lifts them up.
Thank you for helping to keep our youth stay safe, strong, and cared for during the war. This is how we build resilience and strengthen the hearts of the next generation!
