Ezrat Achim runs special, inclusive recreational programs designed to bring together children with
disabilities and their typically developing peers in a supportive and welcoming environment.
These programs, which are coordinated with the children’s school schedules, provide fun and enjoyable
activities while promoting understanding and enabling children with special needs to form meaningful,
close relationships with peers who live in their neighborhoods.
The programs are designed for children and teens ages 10–21 and have been highly successful in
fostering the inclusion of children with special needs within the community.
The counselors who run these programs have experience working with children with disabilities, and
many are studying for degrees in special education. Each counselor completes a specialized training
course in methods to foster inclusion, build friendships, and bring out each child’s unique potential, in
addition to receiving first aid training.
The program operates in four central locations throughout Beit Shemesh, placing most children within
walking distance of one of the centers for activities on Shabbat and chagim.
All of the centers are fully accessible. They are designed with soft, calming colors; are specially furnished
to prevent collisions and injuries; include padded play and activity areas made of cushioned rubber; and
feature additional elements that make the space safe and welcoming for all children.
Beit Shemesh
Programs in our Care Centers run on Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.,
and on Shabbat from 3:30 p.m. until after Shabbat ends.
In addition, special recreational activities take place during the week as needed, depending on the
season, with increased programming during school vacations and other busy periods such as Erev Chag.
Ezrat Achim’s Beit Shemesh Care Centers:
Ramah D: Abaye Street 5
Ramah A: Nahal Micha Street 7
Ramah B: Ribal Street 47
Heftziba: Ben Ish Chai Street
Ezrat Achim is currently expanding this initiative to additional cities across Israel. Our goal is to
continue adding more cities and communities, while strengthening our existing programs, so that every
child with disabilities can enjoy the full attention, care, and nurturing that they deserve.
At present, we run ongoing programs in the following cities:
Ashdod
Activities take place on Shabbat afternoons at Ben Zakai Street 9, at the Ma’ale Community Center.
Jerusalem
Activities are held on Shabbat afternoons at 23 HaTurim Street, at a branch of the Geula-Bukharim
Community Administration— a calm, natural environment perfect for our inclusive recreational
programs.
Join Us!
We invite parents and caregivers to register their children for this uniquely enriching program, which
fosters social skills and promotes inclusion.
For more information about our programs, locations, and registration, please contact us at:
1800-999-000, extension 6
Together, we can create a community where every child feels valued and respected!
