A message about the situation in Israel...  

Dear Friends, 

As I sit down to prepare a Shavuot message for you, Israel finds itself under attack. Despite the rocket fire and unrest, thankfully, our children are safe on our campuses in northern Israel.

As you know, many of the children at Migdal Ohr come from backgrounds with trauma so they can be especially sensitive and frightened by blaring sirens and news of violence. We are working with our team of mental health professionals to help the children to cope with the stress and uncertainty of the situation.  

We are their family and are there to ensure that they feel loved, cared for and safe at all times.

I have been very touched by the outpouring of concern for the children of Migdal Ohr and Rabbi Grossman.

Thank you for your support of Israel on social media, over email, and by phone. Your words of encouragement make a big difference to everyone who lives in Israel and to Jews all over the world who are devastated by the reports of what is going on in our homeland. 

Rabbi Grossman always asks, "Barcheinu Avinu Kulanu K'Echad!" Bless us G-d, together, as one. On Shavuot, the Jewish people stood around Mt. Sinai, "K'Ish E'Chad B'Lev Echad" as one person, with one heart. We were completely united in our mission to be a light unto the nations and a holy kehillah (community).  

Rabbi Grossman says that if we want G-d to bless us, we have to be united. We have to take the initiative to come together as one.

This Shavuot, let's try to create unity and heal division and in that merit, may G-d bless and protect all of Israel. 

Wishing you a Chag Sameach,

Atara Solow

Executive Director

The American Friends of Migdal Ohr