(Courtesy of Migdal Ohr) At its annual gala dinner, American Friends of Migdal Ohr raised thousands of dollars for their transformative Mishpachtonim program, which creates a new model of care for Israeli children from underprivileged and at-risk homes.
Mishpachtonim is a children’s residence framework headed by a married couple who live there with their own children. There is a social worker on each floor who stays in close contact with the students’ biological parents; a psychologist who ensures various therapies are made available as needed, and a teacher who makes sure each child is prepared for school.
“Mishpachtonim is a special framework that provides an opportunity for our students to be a part of a nurturing and wholesome environment in a family setting, which helps them integrate into mainstream society and prepares them to build a solid family home in the future,” founder and dean of Migdal Ohr Educational Institutions and Israel Prize Laureate Rabbi Yitzchak Dovid Grossman said. “It is our moral, ethical and religious obligation not just to help these children get back on their feet after such a challenging start to their lives but provide them with all the tools throughout their lifecycle to become good and productive citizens of Israel and the world.”
Incoming Executive Director of AFMO Atara Solow spoke about the importance of the organization and its contribution to society.
“A flourishing Migdal Ohr means a positive and constructive Israeli future as the boys and girls who pass through Migdal Ohr, with whatever challenges they arrive with, leave with a sense of purpose and the tools to succeed,” Solow said. “As an American, an Israeli, a passionate Zionist, and above all a Jew, I can think of no better mission than to try and help this wonderful organization, led by Rabbi Dovid Grossman, continue to thrive and flourish.”
Benjamin Krasna, deputy head of mission at Israel’s Embassy in Washington, spoke about the importance of Migdal Ohr to Israel’s future. “While our remarkable country marches forward with extraordinary achievements, we must never allow ourselves to leave one child behind,” Krasna explained. “Migdal Ohr is providing a beacon of light to direct us in the proper direction of morality, compassion and responsibility.”
Help Migdal Ohr reach their $500,000 goal and enable 126 children to enter their home this fall. Text MISH2 to 44321 to donate! Or log onto https://secure.givelively.org/donate/the-american-friends-of-migdal-ohr/american-friends-of-migdal-ohr-gala-2019
