In the streets of Neve Ofer, a neighborhood in southern Tel Aviv, stands a house that is more than just a place to live. For over two decades, a family has lived and worked here in a unique children's home that goes far beyond the traditional concept of a foster family.
By Hannah Trusch
The head of the household, Pini, and his wife Odaya lead a life dedicated to the Jewish Orthodox faith. But their devotion extends far beyond the boundaries of their own home. For 23 years, since founding the Jaffa Institute, supported by Christians alongside Israel , they have opened their doors to a total of eleven children between the ages of six and 18.
They come from diverse backgrounds – Arab, Jewish, and international. What these children have in common is that they were removed from their families by social services because they could no longer remain there due to neglect or abuse. Often, however, the children still attend their schools in the Bat Yam area to prevent further changes to their school environment. Currently, nine boys are living with Pini and Odaya.
In addition to his work at the children's home, Pini also teaches Torah. The family is supported by dedicated volunteers who also make a vital contribution. Odaya recounts that 23 years ago, she and her husband were looking for a way to help outside of their regular jobs. This led to their shared life's work: from a decision to open the doors of their home and their hearts to the most vulnerable.
Yechiel Marcus, advisor for planned donations at the Jaffa Institute, aptly describes the house as the Jaffa Institute's inner sanctum. The photos on the walls tell stories of connection and love, for in this house, family and foster children merge into one. Pini's own children, now grown, show a deep bond with their adopted siblings. It is more than just a shared living arrangement; it is a home. The children not only experience a wide range of activities, from soccer games to Bar Mitzvah celebrations, but they also experience security and a family atmosphere. The house, festively decorated for Purim under the theme "boss baby," speaks volumes about this.
The rooms, each shared by three children, offer a glimpse into their individual hobbies and preferences. Spiderman pictures, photographs, and posters of their idols adorn the walls. Children for whom normality looked very different find here a home that perfectly reflects a healthy, normal daily routine: school, hobbies, eating together, taking on responsibilities, and enjoying leisure time together.
Trauma management and everyday family life
The children carry deep-seated wounds. Therefore, they have access to individual counselors and therapies such as photography therapy to support their inner growth and help them cope with their trauma. Odaya explains that the pain of the newly admitted children is increasing, even though they come from similar backgrounds to the others. When asked, she explains that she believes this is partly due to the influence of the internet.
Most of the children do not return to their own families after their 18th birthday, but instead begin their military or national service. If needed, they receive support in finding suitable accommodation.
Life in an Orthodox household also means adhering to certain rules, such as observing Shabbat. The children learn to respect and follow these rules, even though hardly any of them come from Orthodox Jewish backgrounds. For example, they are not allowed to use their cell phones on Shabbat when they are in the communal areas. Children who have to leave the Holy of Holies often remain in contact with one another and continue to be invited to celebrations and events.
Odaya shows me a picture from a bar mitzvah in mid-March. They invited a young man who had recently been expelled for breaking the house rules—and he came. I see a beaming 13-year-old standing next to his former older foster brother. Despite the difficult circumstances, personal bonds are formed at the Neve Ofer house, bonds that often last beyond the time spent there.
Visits and breaks
Every Thursday, children are allowed to receive visits from their family members, but not all children get a visit. Some children are also allowed to visit their parents on weekends or during school holidays. Others go to stay with uncles, aunts, grandparents, or cousins. But this also presents challenges.
Odaya recounts how one of her youngest foster children recently confided in her that he didn't understand why only his grandmother came to visit, but not his parents. After the visits, the boy was always very emotional and difficult to comfort. It's a complex dynamic that the family tries to navigate with love and patience.
Every two weeks, Pini and Odaya take a break while the children stay with selected host families or relatives. They also receive guidance and mentors. Once a year, they all go on holiday together in Tiberias: a real highlight that the children can proudly recount.
Despite all the difficulties, this house radiates warmth and togetherness. It is a place where children not only find shelter but also have the opportunity to grow and heal. Pini and Odaya's special home is a shining example of unconditional love and devotion.
For more than two decades, family and youth work of the Jaffa Institute. Christians on the Side of Israel has supported the
This article first appeared in our newspaper "Israelaktuell," issue 137. You can order the newspaper here . We would also be happy to send you several copies to display and distribute.
