Neve Hanna aims to instill a sense of self-worth and a love of Jewish learning, tradition, and values.  It is not an “institution;” the kids at Neve Hanna – the children of native Israelis and of Russian, North African and Russian immigrants – live in apartment-like settings with housemothers and male counselors, and have age-appropriate roles in running their family units. The expert touch of teachers, psychologists and volunteers ensure that the human needs of every child are met.

Affiliated with the Masorti (Conservative) movement, Neve Hanna offers a traditional religious education, but one where boys and girls have equal opportunities for learning and participation; many have meaningful bar and bat mitzvah ceremonies, and all celebrate Shabbat and observe Jewish holy days and festivals.   Children at Neve Hanna are taught to earn their own “bread,” not to take charity, by working at an on-site bakery, where they learn the arts of baking and marketing specialty breads, cakes and other baked goods that are sold in dining rooms of Israeli corporations and served on El Al flights.  In short, at Neve Hanna disadvantaged children are taught the skills necessary to lead happy lives and become productive Israeli citizens.

We were so deeply impressed by what we saw that we joined the board of directors of Neve Hanna’s American affiliate.  If we can provide any additional information – or better, facilitate a visit on your next trip – please don’t hesitate to contact us.