JNF takes Holocaust survivors to see Israel’s spring flowers
Over 4,100 Holocaust survivors have embarked on blossom tours across Israel, organised by the KKL-JNF Foundation since the beginning of March.
Photo: Erez Ben-David/KKL-JNF
The tours combine heritage sites and natural sites, including blossoms in Canada Park, Mount Carmel, Gilboa Mountain, and more, with visits to Rosh Tzippor and other birdwatching sites. Additionally, Holocaust survivors visited Beit Hannah Szenesh, the Anu Museum, the largest and most comprehensive Jewish Museum in the world, Khan Sha’ar Hagai, Beit Yigal Alon, and more. The tours are guided by KKL-JNF tour guides.
Nissim Meghnagi, Director of the Community, New Immigrants, and Special Needs Department in KKL-JNF’s Education Division, said: “KKL-JNF doesn’t wait only for Holocaust Remembrance Day to address Holocaust survivors; we conduct activities throughout the year for the benefit of Holocaust survivors. We are pleased to witness that the blossom tours across the country provide them with a sense of strength, solidarity, and shared experience – relieving their loneliness. In addition, we organize tours during the National Month and distribute food packages for Passover to Holocaust survivors, mainly through young volunteers.”
One survivor wrote to KKL-JNF on behalf of the others, saying: “On behalf of myself and all the members and staff of Amcha Rehovot, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for the wonderful trip. Thanks to you, Natanial and Nissim. nearly 60 Holocaust survivors and their escorts enjoyed an unforgettable trip. We enjoyed the blossoms in Gilboa and the visit to Gan Hashlosha. You led and guided the tour with professionalism and great love. Without your contribution and action, we would not have been able to bring these dear people to see all the beauty of our country. Holocaust survivors said the tour gave them good energy to continue coping with the complex reality and challenges of age. If there is an opportunity to repeat this important project for the benefit of Holocaust survivors, we would be very happy. Hoping for the continuation of this beautiful endeavour of KKL – JNF tours for Amcha. Thank you very much. Tami Hayut, Amcha Club Manager, Rehovot”.
