On Tuesday , October 29th, 2019 the  Shaalei Tikva organization was honored to celebrate the Bar and Bat mitzvahs of 73 girls and boys from  at risk families with a daylong celebration in Jerusalem. The youths came from across Israel each one with their own unique story and personal challenges that have lead them to where they are today. This wonderful event was initiated by Mr. Max Benaim, Chairman of the Estrella Benaim Z”l Foundation, who raised the majority of the funds necessary for this event.

The day began in the holy and magical aura of the Kotel in the Old City of Jerusalem where the boys put on their new Tefillin for the first time after which they experienced a special Tefila at the Kotel as did the girls. Finally a festive meal at the hall with music, much dancing and singing. Each Bar mitzvah boy  received a  new Tefillin and Tallit set, with a personalized embroidered bag, and Siddur and each Bat Mitzva girl received a Siddur and gift voucher. Receiving a bar or bat mitzvah gift is something that these youth don’t take for granted and appreciate for all its worth.

Respected guests included: Mr and Mrs Max Benaim from Toronto, Rabbi  Rachamim Nissimi Chairman of Shaalei Tikva,  Dr Yaacov Hadani and Mr. Ben Noe from the World Organization of Orthodox Communities  and Synagogues and distinguished guests from the Sephardi community in Toronto.