The goal of the Absorption Center is to help integrate and prepare olim for independent living within Israeli society.

Background
The Haruv Absorption Center, which was established in 2004, is located in the biblical city of Beer Sheva. A highly developed city with approximately 200,000 residents, Beer Sheva serves as the capital of the Negev. Situated in the 'Gimmel' neighborhood of the city, it is within walking distance to health clinics, the university, a shopping center and many other services. The Absorption Center staff is strongly committed to paving the way towards the successful absorption of the Ethiopian community in Israel. Its goal is to serve as an initial support and guidance center for new immigrants and to provide them with tools for independent living.

Accommodations
The Haruv Absorption Center has 162 residential units of varying sizes. Basic appliances and furnishings, including beds, closets, refrigerator, stove, chairs and tables, are also provided. Upon arrival, new immigrants are welcomed with basic food provisions for their first days.

Young Montrealers took part in a fun activity to mark the holiday with children of Ethiopian olim at the Haruv Absorption Center;

The Haruv absorption center offers services such as classrooms, a library, computer room, a jamboree room and a recreation room.

Activities and Special Projects
The Center provides activities for both adults and children. For adults this includes Hebrew studies, conversion classes, seminars, community activities, workshops on parenting, employment, consumerism and trips around Israel.

Activities for children focus on educational reinforcement and enrichment in subjects such as Jewish customs, festivals and Israeli culture. In addition, they have sports, drama, music, day camps, trips and more.

Activities are geared towards the different stages of absorption and assisting olim in becoming familiar with their new surroundings.

Special Projects for Children
Soccer Club – Provides weekly activities and guidance in skills and team performance

Computer Club - Classes on how to use the computer for educational and recreational purposes, are given.

Educational Reinforcement - Extra reinforcement in Hebrew and Math studies is available for children and youth.

Enrichment for Children - Joint enrichment activities between parents and children that include drama and arts and crafts are held in the center.

Machteshim Project - 16 workers from the Machteshim factory have bi- monthly meetings and activities with center children that include educational assistance, bowling, cycling and other experiential activities, outside the center.

Project "Spring" - Medical students from Ben Gurion university serve as personal mentors to children from the absorption center, providing educational and social enrichment. Likewise, they organize periodical activities during vacations and holidays, and volunteering within the community.

Staff
A dedicated and professional staff is responsible for the care of the new immigrants and for the daily running of the Absorption Center. The staff consists of 24 employees including a director, administrative assistant, head of education and culture, social worker, housemother and counselors.