Healing the Children of Israel,
One Therapy Session at a Time
Chanukah is a time for celebrating light over darkness, hope over despair, and strength over fear. But for too many children in Israel, the light seems distant — overshadowed by the trauma of living through a war.
Every day, young minds and hearts are exposed to the horrors of conflict, loss, and constant uncertainty. From the constant threat of missile attacks to the absence of fathers who serve on the front lines, Israeli children are carrying heavy burdens — and they need our help now more than ever.
Avigyel Remes, originally from Toronto, Canada, has lived in Shiloh, Israel for 16 years with her husband, Natan, and their three daughters — Eliana (12), Odelia (10), and Tchiya (5). Avigyel is a dedicated social worker, but the ongoing war has tested her strength as a mother and wife. The emotional toll of this conflict has been overwhelming for the entire family.
Natan, a devoted father, has been called up for reserve duty four times, totaling over 300 days away from home. His absences have meant missing countless weekends and holidays with his family, putting an enormous strain on his wife and children. The emotional weight of this separation has been particularly hard on their daughters.
Odelia, their 10-year-old daughter, has suffered deeply from the trauma of war and her father’s extended absences. Every time Natan returns, Odelia regresses emotionally, overwhelmed with fear, anxiety, and sadness. The ongoing conflict has taken a significant toll on her emotional well-being, and she often feels unable to cope with the weight of it all.
Through Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund (SICF), Odelia has started her journey toward healing. With the support of SICF’s Mifgash program, along with art and drama therapy, she is learning to process her trauma and regain emotional stability. Slowly, Odelia is finding her way back to peace, but her recovery is just one example of the healing that can happen with your support.
The children of Israel are suffering, but they don’t have to do it alone. With your help, SICF provides life-saving therapy that helps children like Odelia process their pain, find hope, and heal.
This Chanukah, as we celebrate light over darkness, let’s bring that light to the children of Israel who are suffering from the trauma of war. Your donation will provide life-saving therapy, helping children like Odelia find their way back to peace, hope, and joy.
Every candle we light symbolizes a step towards healing, a path out of darkness, and a chance for every child to feel safe again. Together, we can give them the greatest gift of all — the opportunity to heal and rebuild their lives.