October 22, 2009 /  4 Cheshvan 5770

On Thursday, October 22, 2009, Ben Yakir’s students faced an unthinkable reality: their prized therapeutic animal corner was burglarized and all 53 goats were stolen. Beyond the physical damage caused by the break-in, and the significant cost of repairing and replacing the goats, the students, teachers, and administration were all in a state of shock.

Within hours, Jewish Agency layleaders, volunteers, and professional colleagues bought the goats to replace those that were stolen. It is these kinds of displays of dedication and commitment that are helping Ben Yakir rebuild what has been lost, ensuring that the boys continue to reap the benefits of animal therapy and that they receive the best treatment and care possible.

For so many of the boys, caring for the goats, tending to their needs, served as a critical part of their scholastic and personal development. By caring for the animals, Ben Yakir’s students transitioned from disadvantage to opportunity, from adversity to advancement.

We are grateful to all those who have contributed to this cause and who have helped us bring hope back to Ben Yakir.

Ben Yakir boys with the goats, September 2009