(Courtesy of Lema’an Achai) Lema’an Achai last week held a groundbreaking ceremony in celebration of the construction of its new International Chesed Center. Participating in the event were many of its friends and patrons, including Dr. Aliza Bloch, mayor of Beit Shemesh; Rina Hollander, deputy mayor; and Zvi Wolicki, Beit Shemesh municipal councilman. The building will be located at the strategic junction of Ayalon and Dolev streets in Ramat Beit Shemesh.

Lema’an Achai has grown its trailblazing programs and successes, demonstrably improving the lives of hundreds of families around Israel each year. The International Chesed Center will be a dynamic epicenter of kindness and feature dedicated space for all of Lema’an Achai’s spheres of intervention. The center will directly and dramatically impact the ability to assist clients throughout Israel and will serve as the launching pad for Smart Chesed program around the world.

Mayor Bloch emphasized how Lema’an Achai’ critical work is helpful for everyone, teaching everyone humility. “Every single one of us can end up needing help and Lema’an Achai is there providing assistance,” she said.

N.C., a representative of the hundreds and thousands who have been helped by Lema’an Achai over the years spoke movingly, bringing many in the crowd to tears. The young father of six had trouble finding himself and his footing in Israel. One of Lema’an Achai’s experienced and sensitive social workers developed a plan together with N.C., and the family is thriving. N.C. received financial counseling, employment assistance and a sympathetic ear. “The fact that I can stand in front of you and publicly thank you for all that you have done for me and my family, is something that not everyone can do, and something that I could not have done myself just a short while ago. Thank you,” he said.

“Additional space is absolutely required to help additional less fortunate families break the cycle of poverty. The time—and need—to bring our different units under one roof has come, and we need to empower our professionals and volunteers to provide the maximum amount of assistance to our clients in the most efficient manner,” said Rabbi Avrohom Leventhal, Lema’an Achai’s Executive Director.

For more information and dedication opportunities, contact Stu Schrader at [email protected] or 02-9991553.