Jerusalem Mayor Agrees to Aid Ezra Youth Branch Relocation

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion has committed to assisting the Ezra youth branch in the Har Homa neighborhood with its relocation to a new facility. The commitment followed a meeting with the branch's instructors, who presented their needs and challenges regarding the move. The instructors highlighted the necessity for strengthening the counseling staff, acquiring new equipment, developing the premises, and expanding the number of participants.

Lion praised the coordinator, Abigail, and the instructors for their work and pledged support to ensure a smooth transition. In response, the branch's team provided the municipality with a list of required equipment, which is now being processed for purchase. The municipality will also help fund the opening event for the branch's new location and the start of the Elul month activities.

Additionally, the municipality will work to arrange access to local football fields for the branch during its operating hours. The relocation dispute began in early October when instructors protested the move from their original building, which was slated to house the Bnei Akiva branch. Instructors argued the change could disrupt the educational activities and the strong connection with the dozens of participants, some of whom face complex challenges and require close personal guidance.

Instructors had previously described their fight to maintain the program as "fighting for them with our teeth." With the agreement reached after the meeting with the mayor, the branch hopes to finalize its setup in the new location and continue expanding its services for the youth.