Photo: Hadar Epstein, Candle lighting in the Shelter, Dec. 2025

Dear Friends,

The traditional chanukah candle lighting event at the shelter allows us to hold a moving and empowering gathering of women from the present, from the distant past, and those who have only recently left us, together with friends and staff members.

Here are some words shared by the women who lit chanukah candles:

"I was here with my mother almost 20 years ago... We ran away from home - which was a violent, traumatizing and abusive place - to here.

A world that I didn't know existed opened up to me: a ray of light amidst all the darkness, fear and pain. 

I was then a seedling, which in the special and professional way here, was watered, nurtured and most importantly, given hope that change was possible.

I can say that today I am living my best life and I say with complete confidence that everything comes from the solid foundation that the shelter gave me.

Chanukah is a holiday of miracles, light and victory. 

So the shelter is my miracle and this is my victory and the light that I get to bring into the world every day."

"15 years ago I arrived at this place, wounded. 

Physically wounded, after violence, and mentally wounded to the point where I was unable to function. 

My children were small and the situation was very difficult.

Here they truly cared for them: they held us, guided us, gave us the feeling that we were not alone in this struggle.

This place not only protected us - it believed in me - even when I didn't believe in myself.

Chanukah is about light, but true light doesn't always come as a miracle.

Sometimes it is people who do holy work.

For those of you who are here today, I want you to know something important: You can get through this. You are not alone. 

Thank you for the light you kindle here, every day. "

A Safe Place to Grow

We invite you to watch the following animation video, which focuses on the world of the children who come to us with their mothers. 

The violence to which the children are exposed leaves its mark on them and affects their development. 

Assisting the children and their mothers together provides an opportunity to minimize some of these consequences and to lay the foundation for them to become functional and healthy adults.

Your Donation is Greatly Appreciated!

Now, more than ever, we need donations to continue to help those who have no economic backing or family support.
USA:  tax-deductible contributions by check/wire transfer can be made via PEF Israel Endowment Funds, or by credit card, via the link above.