THE CHANUKA MAGIC AT KEF WINTER CAMP

As families all over the world celebrated Chanuka, over 70 children with a wide range of disabilities enjoyed a memorable Chanuka at KEF this winter, supported by over 170 trained and experienced volunteers and medical staff.

Lighting the Menorah together was truly magical, and the sparkle of those moments permeated the entire atmosphere of camp and made it even more memorable for all the  participants.  After Chanukah lighting, the children were given a gift every night including a set of their own Chanukah pyjamas for a camp pyjama party.

The camp was split into several divisions, with a boys-only division in a separate area of the site, and activities and outings were carefully designed to be appropriate for the various abilities of the participants.  Entertainers, daily outings and a concert kept the camp buzzing, with on-site swimming, a sensory room, activities and inflatables to ensure that there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Feedback from parents highlighted the immense benefits of this respite. One parent commented, “Winter holiday is literally the most needed break, it does us all the world of good”.   Another parent reflected after the first day – “The sense of lightness we're already feeling for the week and being able to do things without restriction….all because you are all so unbelievably fabulous…thank you for giving us that”.

Each volunteer shared warmth, patience, and compassion to all the participants, creating a space of joy and acceptance for the KEF children.   We are deeply grateful to the entire team for bringing so much light into the lives of the KEF campers and their families this Chanukah!