Dear ESRA Family
We continue to leverage and maximize ESRA's war efforts through our ongoing projects, such as 'Students Build a Community' (SBC) in Netanya, Akko, and South Tel Aviv. Financially stressed students receive free housing in disadvantaged neighborhoods and, in return, mentor local schoolchildren and become social activists. Our students also volunteer with evacuated children during wartime.
We spoke with some of them...
|
Liraz Tamaño, a Business Administration student, helps children evacuated from Sderot, witnessing their traumatic experiences as they constantly speak of the terrorists in their homes and the weapons they carry. "I find fulfillment in seeing their initial distrust transform into moments of normalcy and smiles. My message: "Guard our souls by doing what benefits them."
|
|
|
|
|
Yasmin Harper, a Geography and Sustainable Human Environment student, returned to Israel after growing up in the USA. "Being part of the ESRA SBC South TLV community helps me connect despite language difficulties and feel more at home here in Israel. I feel my work is meaningful and helpful, even if only in a small way. What is my message? Peace now."
|
|
|
|
|
Maya Iyov, Government, Diplomacy, and Strategy student, tutors evacuated kids in Hebrew, Math, and English. "Hearing their stories is hard, but I must be strong for them. When I arrive, they run and hug me. My message: In the darkest times, I believe in our nation and the IDF. We will overcome; better days will come." |
|
|
|
|
ESRA also partners with Shachak – Social Community Service, Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, enlisting new immigrant university students to volunteer in the community for a tuition scholarship. The students receive training and support, becoming part of ESRA’s Personal Support Services for English speakers.
Here are their testimonies:
|
David Dusi (USA), 3 years in Israel, recently married, volunteering with ESRA through Shahak, recipient of an ESRA scholarship. Helping with relief activities. "My message: Keep your head up, stay strong, and love one another.” |
|
|
|
|
Emily Benchmuel (Canada), 4 years in Israel, Pre-Medicine student. “I make friendly phone calls to elderly English Speakers during the war period. People are so appreciative and thank me many times for calling. My message: Be positive and stay safe.”
|
|
|
|
|
Naomi Sanders (USA), 6 years in Israel, student of Chinese Medicine. "My message: I’m reaching out to the English community. One person can’t fix the world but a lot of people doing little things can make a big difference.”
|
|
|
|
|
Would you share your message with us here?
ESRA's expanded family offers students a home during these important years while they help shape the next generation, the beating heart of Israeli society for generations.
Be a part of the ESRA family's war effort. Click here to find volunteering opportunities. Join our upcoming activities here.
Wishing everyone a peaceful and safe weekend.
Nella Feldsher, ESRA Chair Sunny Marshansky, ESRA CEO
|
esra.org.il | +972 9 9508371 | admin@esra.org.il
ESRA English Speaking Residents Association
Non-Profit & Public Institution No. 580037455 |
|
|
|
|
|
