Youth Basketball Team from Hapoel Hof Ashkelon, Displaced from 24 Communities Attacked on October 7th, Finds Refuge and Healing in Boca Raton

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Youth Basketball Team from Hapoel Hof Ashkelon, Displaced from 24 Communities Attacked on October 7th, Finds Refuge and Healing in Boca Raton

[Boca Raton, Florida] - The Boca Raton Synagogue Networking Group (BRSNG), in partnership with The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, The Boca Raton Synagogue and Project Twenty Four , is proud to announce that the youth basketball team from Hapoel Hof Ashkelon Israel has arrived in Boca Raton for a special and unique Shabbat aimed at healing through community engagement, February 2-4, 2024.

Following the devastating events that took place on October 7th, where 24 communities in Israel were attacked, the young players from Hapoel Hof Ashkelon found themselves displaced and in desperate need of support. Recognizing the importance of healing and creating a sense of belonging, BRSNG, along with its partners, extended a warm invitation to the team to spend a fun-filled weekend in Boca Raton.

The healing journey will commence on Friday afternoon with a heartwarming welcome event, where the team will be greeted by members of the Boca Raton community. This will be followed by a full Shabbat experience, during which the players will be immersed in the warmth and hospitality of the BRS community. Through engaging in prayer, sharing meals, and participating in various activities, the team will have the opportunity to find solace and strength in the embrace of the Boca Raton community.

One of the highlights of the weekend will be a basketball tournament with the middle school students of KHDS (Katz Hillel Day School). This exciting game will not only provide a platform for friendly competition but also serve as a symbol of unity and solidarity between the youth of different communities.

The organizers of this special weekend of solidarity expressed, "Hapoel Hof Ashkelon has faced unimaginable hardships. It is the compassion and support of communities like ours that help them heal and rebuild their lives." They emphasized, "Uniting Jewish teens from diverse cultures and backgrounds creates a sense of unity and camaraderie beyond basketball. This weekend aims to foster meaningful connections that bring our communities together. We are honored to participate in this special opportunity with Project Twenty Four."

Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Head Rabbi of the Boca Raton Synagogue, expressed his pride and gratitude in being part of this special Shabbaton. He emphasized that welcoming the youth basketball team from Hapoel Hof Ashkelon to our community is not just a fleeting honor, but a lifelong bond. “This weekend serves as a powerful catalyst, inspiring others to explore the transformative impact of Project Twenty Four and future initiatives, as we unite as one to provide unwavering support and upliftment to those in need. May this Shabbat serve as a resolute stepping stone on our collective journey towards healing, unity, and the eternal kinship of our newfound community.”

For more information on how to get involved and show your support, please contact Gila Stern at gila@brandriotmedia.comor 561-929-6536.

About Boca Raton Synagogue Networking Group (BRSNG):

BRSNG, co-founded in 2019 by Gila Stern and Marc Bienenfeld, is a dedicated group of more than 75 professionals within the Boca Raton Jewish community who strive to make a positive impact on the community through various initiatives and projects. Since inception, BRSNG has generated over $3.1 million dollars within its membership and donated thousands to charitable efforts. Their commitment to supporting those in need extends beyond geographical boundaries, as demonstrated by their collaboration with Hapoel Hof Ashkelon.

About Project Twenty Four:

Project Twenty Four (P24) is a social impact non-profit initiative focused on addressing the problems and real-life needs of Israelis and Jews globally, following the events of October 7.

P24 provides an opportunity for Israelis and Jews worldwide to collaborate and use their skills, expertise, connections, and knowledge to tackle the real-life needs of individuals, communities, and businesses affected by the October 7th tragedy. Together, we aim to create projects that promote healing and empowerment for everyone involved.

About The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County:

Established in 1979, the JFSPBC is made up of Jewish and social service organizations, synagogues and schools that provide valued services and programs to recipients in South Palm Beach County, in Israel and around the world.

The JFSPBC is also comprised of local residents, including lay leadership, volunteer, donors, professional staff, rabbis, educators, event participants and students. Situated on a 100-acre campus in west Boca Raton – the largest in the nation – the JFSPBC supports more than 70 beneficiaries, engages with more than 5,000 donors, and connects more than 130,000 residents.

To learn more about how we contribute to a shared vision for the Jewish community, visit Jewishboca.org.

###

Note to editors: For high-resolution images and additional information, please contact Gila Stern at gila@brandriotmedia.com or 561-929-6536.

broken image