Jewish Organization Holds Annual Retreat for Rescuees and Their Children

Approximately 100 women and children, recently rescued in operations by the organization Yad L'Achim, participated in its annual "Strengthening Shabbat." The event, held annually in the Hebrew month of Elul, aims to provide the women and their children with a positive and empowering Shabbat and Jewish experience as part of the organization's ongoing support.

This year's theme was "Victorious Together," focusing on Jewish identity, connection to God, the power of repentance, and the ability to start anew. The sessions were led by Rabbi Orit Salomon, who annually tailors content for the participants, and Rabbi Schneur Shmuelovitz. The discussions were specifically adapted to the complex personal backgrounds of the women, who were deeply moved by them. Simultaneously, the children engaged in separate activities led by a team of about ten educators with backgrounds in education and therapy. Before Shabbat and after its conclusion, the children participated in an engaging session with an animal-assisted therapist.

The most emotional moments occurred when the women committed to further strengthening their observance of Jewish law and commandments. Each woman shared her commitment with others, creating a powerful domino effect as more women expressed their desire to add more commandments and good deeds to their lives. A parallel program for "second generation" girls aged 12 and up included guidance from an emotional therapist, the Yad L'Achim team, and lecturers. Some of these girls, who have known each other for years through the organization's programs, discussed coping with complex identities and their future aspirations. One girl described the others as "like my sisters here," highlighting the safe space for open discussion.

Yad L'Achim noted that for some participants, the Shabbat retreat serves as a significant turning point. One former recipient recalled being inspired by seeing an organization activist walking to synagogue with his family in Shabbat attire, which motivated her to pursue a similar life. Years later, she is married with children and lives a strictly observant Jewish lifestyle, attributing her transformation to "opening her heart at a Yad L'Achim Shabbat."

The organization also observed a trend of year-over-year progress, with women who committed to observing Shabbat for the first time the previous year now observing it fully and seeking guidance from Rabbi Yona Nussbacher. At the end of the retreat, participants shared their feelings and expressed gratitude for the ongoing support they receive in emotional, financial, legal, and value-based areas, as well as for the support groups and friendships formed.

Yad L'Achim stated that each such Shabbat strengthens the women and children in their new lives, demonstrating the organization's motto: "We do not give up on any Jew."