Purim is always one of the most exciting days of the year at Migdal Ohr.

From colorful costumes and festive carnivals to music, dancing, and endless laughter, our campuses in northern Israel come alive as thousands of children celebrate together.

This year, however, Purim carried an added layer of meaning.

Throughout the day, celebrations were punctuated by air raid sirens. Children and staff moved between parties and protected spaces, adapting to a reality that has become all too familiar for Israeli families. Yet despite the interruptions, the joy never stopped!

In safe rooms, children sang, prayed, and encouraged one another with remarkable spirit. Outside, as soon as it was safe, the celebrations resumed. In the month of Adar leading up to the holiday itself, Migdal Ohr organized carnivals, bounce houses, games, and activities, determined to ensure that every child experienced the happiness of Purim.

Across Migdal Ohr's family dormitories, schools, and youth programs, hundreds of children and teens dedicated time on the Fast of Esther and Purim to Torah learning for the success of Israel's defense forces and the safety of all those living in Israel. They learned what it means to be part of a nation, sharing not only in one another's celebrations but also in one another's challenges and responsibilities.

During the Fast of Esther, older children learned and prayed for Am Yisrael!

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At Orot B'Emek Elementary School, one of Migdal Ohr's fifteen schools, each classroom transformed into a different country. Students decorated their rooms with displays highlighting customs, culture, and foods from around the world, welcoming visiting classes on an educational journey across continents without ever leaving the school building.

The creativity of the teachers and the enthusiasm of the students turned the entire campus into a vibrant celebration of learning and discovery.

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Throughout it all, Rabbi Grossman joined the children in celebrating, dancing, and sharing in the excitement of . His presence served as a reminder of the values that have guided Migdal Ohr for more than five decades: that every child deserves joy, every child deserves hope, and every child deserves the opportunity to build a bright future.

These children are growing up during one of the most challenging chapters in Israel's modern history. The memories they are creating today, of resilience in the face of uncertainty, of faith during difficult times, and of pride in their people and country, will remain with them for years to come!

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