Gur Hasidic Orphanage in Ashdod Opens Renovated 'Shulamit Lounge'
A grand inauguration ceremony was held for the newly renovated and expanded "Shulamit Lounge" at the central villa of the Gur Hasidic orphanage in Ashdod. The event was attended by Rabbi Shlomo Tzvi Alter, head of the organization, who expressed deep gratitude to the Teitel family for their generous donation in memory of their mother, Shulamit Teitel. The lounge, located in the "Beit Shalom Fisher" complex, serves as a spiritual and physical sanctuary for orphans, widows, and widowers within the Gur community.
The entire floor underwent a comprehensive renovation, including significant expansion and luxurious new furnishings designed to create a respectful and supportive home-like atmosphere for the residents and their families. The project was funded by Rabbi Hershel Teitel and his son, philanthropist Rabbi Shlomo Teitel, prominent members of the Gur community and known for their charitable work.
During the ceremony, mezuzahs were affixed to the new section, followed by blessings from community rabbis. Rabbi Alter personally oversees the orphanage's activities and praised the Teitel family for their dedication to supporting vulnerable members of the community. The event was attended by the extended Teitel family, Gur rabbis, community leaders, and public figures from Ashdod.
A guided tour of the renovated facility was led by Rabbi Yisrael Ashkenazi, the orphanage's CEO, who detailed the scope of the renovations and the expanding range of services offered. The villa regularly hosts families for various programs, including study days, emotional and spiritual support, and hospitality. The new lounge represents a significant step forward in the organization's mission to provide a warm and nurturing environment for those in need within the Gur Hasidic community.