As Pesach approached, children and families across Migdal Ohr were preparing for the holiday while navigating the challenges of wartime life in Israel. Despite school closures, frequent sirens, and ongoing uncertainty, our campuses and programs remained filled with activity, learning, and meaningful experiences.

Ohr Yisraeli Keeps Teens Connected

With schools closed indefinitely in many parts of the country, Ohr Yisraeli became an important source of stability for thousands of teens.

Across 160 branches throughout Israel, mentors continued gathering with students for Torah learning, activities, and social events. Many branches recently upgraded their facilities with new recreational equipment, including pool and table tennis tables, helping create welcoming environments where teens could spend time together and remain connected to positive role models. Those who didnt

Most importantly, every young person knew someone was looking out for them.
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Giving Back Before Pesach

During a state of national emergency, Migdal Ohr's dorms and programs for children with special needs are some of the only programs open and operating in Israel. Because of the unique Mishpachton model that we've built, with your partnership, orphaned and at-risk youth can stay safe and even GIVE BACK through the conflict!

The students who live in our Mishpachton foster family dorms are working tirelessly to package boxes for soldiers, homebound seniors, and needy families as part of the Chag Saveah Pesach food drive!

Instead of feeling frightened and helpless during a conflict, they are empowered to help out and care for others! What an amazing message to send to our young people.
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Caring for Children with Special Needs

Even with schools closed across much of the country, Migdal Ohr's commitment to children with special needs remains strong.

Special arrangements allowed numerous programs to continue operating in protected spaces, providing meals, activities, supervision, and support for both children and their families. For parents facing the challenge of caring for multiple children at home during a national emergency, these programs offered a critical lifeline.

Rabbi Grossman visited one of the branches, encouraging students and staff and reminding everyone that they are part of a resilient and extraordinary nation.
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Bringing Smiles During Difficult Days

Long days spent moving between classrooms and shelters can take a toll on any child.

To lift spirits, Migdal Ohr organized special programming, including an exotic animal show featuring reptiles and other fascinating creatures. Students had the opportunity to learn, explore, and enjoy a welcome distraction from the stress surrounding them.

The excitement and laughter were a reminder that childhood should continue, even during difficult times.

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Safe Rooms Filled with Friendship

As sirens continued to sound throughout northern Israel, children living in Migdal Ohr's Mishpachton family dormitories were able to shelter safely in the protected rooms built directly into their homes.

During extended periods indoors, game consoles donated through the bar mitzvah projects of two boys from New Jersey became a favorite source of entertainment. Their thoughtful gifts helped turn hours in shelters into opportunities for friendship, fun, and normalcy.

It was a beautiful reminder that the children of Migdal Ohr are supported not only by their immediate community, but by an extended family around the world.

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Teens Helping Evacuated Families

The impact of Ohr Yisraeli's mentorship could be seen in the actions of its students.

A group of young women from the youth movement recently visited children from evacuated northern communities, bringing crafts, activities, and encouragement. Their efforts brought joy to families facing displacement and uncertainty while demonstrating the values of caring and responsibility that define Migdal Ohr's programs.

Baking Matzah with Rabbi Grossman

Alongside all of these activities, preparations for Pesach continued as they do every year.

Rabbi and Rebbetzin Grossman joined students for matzah baking, helping them prepare for the Seder and experience the traditions that connect generations of Jews around the world.

As the holiday approached, the sight of children baking matzah, learning Torah, helping others, and celebrating together offered a powerful reminder that no amount of war or sirens will deter us from spreading kindness and living joyfully in our land.

Thanks to your partnership, those values continue to flourish throughout Migdal Ohr every day!

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