Twenty-eight Israeli children who lost a parent killed while serving in the country's security forces participated in a three-week delegation to North America as part of the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization's annual Bar/Bat Mitzvah program. The journey provided them with an opportunity to connect with American Jewish communities and experience international travel.
The trip began in Chicago, where the children stayed with host families, followed by nearly a week of activities with American peers at Camp Chi in Wisconsin. The delegation then traveled to New York City, visiting landmarks like Times Square and attending a performance of "The Lion King" on Broadway, before continuing to New Jersey. For many, this was their first visit to the United States.
Daniel Elbaum, executive director of the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization, stated that the program is deliberately designed to provide a powerful and meaningful experience. "The Lion King, for instance, is more than a Broadway show for them. It’s the story of an orphan who is able to honor his father’s memory and move forward because of the support of his friends," he told Fox News Digital.
The program aims to foster a strong Jewish identity and pride in Israel, particularly for children who have experienced profound loss. With the United States home to a large Jewish population, the trip offered the children a chance to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and religious observances, reinforcing their connection to the Jewish people.
The IDF Widows & Orphans Organization, founded in 1991, supports over 18,000 individuals, including widows, widowers, and orphans. Since the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led massacre and the subsequent war, the organization has seen an increase in the number of families needing support, with 910 new orphans joining their ranks.
Among the participants was 11-year-old Tal Goldstein-Almog, who was held captive in Gaza for 51 days with his mother and two siblings following the Oct. 7 attack. His father and sister were killed during the assault. Tal shared his experience with other children in the delegation, finding a supportive environment among peers who had undergone similar hardships.
"Now that I came, I think I will continue taking part in these things after meeting new kids, feeling comfortable around them and understanding that we experienced the same things," Tal said. His motto is that life continues, and he found the experience of visiting a new country and engaging in fun activities refreshing.
Shadan Knefiss, who first participated in the program as an orphan and returned as a counselor, emphasized the program's importance in providing a space to discuss feelings and experiences that may not be understood in everyday life. As a member of Israel's Druze community, she also assisted with translation for Arabic-speaking participants.
Noor, 13, whose father was killed in the line of duty, described his first trip to the United States. He encouraged other children in similar situations to participate in such trips, meet new children, and make friends. "My message to other children like us is to go on trips, meet new kids and make new friends," Noor stated.