Anna, 95, from Ukraine, is an Amigour resident who lives in the Orot Home for the Elderly in Be’er Sheva. When World War II broke out, she was 13, and her parents were killed but she survived thanks to a Russian woman who allowed Anna to hide in her home for a while. After such a difficult childhood, Anna is grateful to have a home at Amigour and caring staff to look after her.

“I am very happy living here, there are many social and cultural events throughout the year that interest me. I enjoy the holiday celebrations and I feel like Amigour is my family,” shared Anna. “Every day I wake up and know that I am not alone.”

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Leah and Genadi in their Amigour apartment | Photo: The Jewish Agency for Israel

Leah and Genadi, who moved to Israel from Russia 23 years ago, were unsure how they would be able to afford their rent after they retired and with increasing medical costs for the both of them. When they learned there was a possibility they could get an apartment at Amigour, they felt as if a miracle had happened.

“If it wasn’t for Amigour, I don’t know what would have happened to us,” shared Genadi. “Our health is no longer what it used to be and we were really worried about our future. Now we are here and we love it; there are so many ​​activities offered, so it is never boring.”

As the son of Holocaust survivors, Harold Finger, a longtime Keren Hayesod donor in New South Wales, Australia, grew up understanding the importance of Jews looking after their fellow Jews and supporting the Jewish state. For Harold, taking care of vulnerable populations in Israel, and specifically, the elderly and Holocaust survivors, is especially meaningful, and he has a special place in his heart for Amigour.

Harold Finger is a member of The Jewish Agency’s Board of Governors and Deputy Chair of the Israeli Society Committee as well as a member of the World Executive of Keren Hayesod