The children of the Alumim orphanage had much to smile about as they celebrated the holiday of Purim. Mr. And Mrs. Ethan Gross, who traveled from Detroit, Michigan to visit the orphanage in March of 2024, sent special mishloach manot to each and every child at the home. The insulated picnic bags, filled with a large assortment of exquisite treats, included a personalized note addressed to each child.
The packages brought immediate joy to the children, who range in age from toddlers to teenagers. In addition to enjoying the tasty treats, the children were happy to know they were loved and cared for, not only by the staff of the orphanage but by their adopted “aunt and uncle” in the United States.
It has been a difficult couple of years for the 100 children who left their home in Zhitomir shortly after the Russian invasion. After a harrowing journey through the Carpathian mountains and a plane ride to Israel, the children and other members of the community temporarily settled in Nes Harim. Once it became clear that the situation in Ukraine precluded a return to Zhitomir in the near future, the orphanage relocated to more permanent quarters in Ashkelon. The children quickly adapted to their new surroundings, only to be forced to flee war a second time, following the attacks of October 7th.
We appreciate the compassion and ongoing support from Mr. and Mrs. Gross, along with others around the world. Together we save lives and restore hope.
