By: Laurina Driesse

It can be extremely traumatic packing up one’s home, downscaling dearest possessions, and leaving most memories behind. Especially when deep down inside one knows this will probably be the last move.

For Holocaust survivor Yaacov, however, his decision to move is a choice which he could completely make for himself; unlike during the war years when he was forced to move from his home in Poland to far-away Siberia.

“I expect good things. I move with joy”, Yaacov shared with Yudit Setz, ICEJ Aid’s Director for Holocaust Survivor Projects.

The Jewish and Christian staff at the ICEJ’s Home for Holocaust Survivors in Haifa warmly welcomed Yaacov with flowers to his new home. “We are so excited to have him as a resident” said Yudit.

Upon entering his new residence, Yaacov was wonderfully surprised at the beautiful clean apartment, which is fully furnished and has its own bathroom and small kitchenette area, as well as a flat-screen TV.

Knowing that a chapter of his life is finishing and a new one begins, Yaacov said: “The question is only, how much time, how many years I will still enjoy living there.”

As Yaacov settled into his new apartment, he gave thanks while enjoying a glass of water, saying: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe who has granted us life, who has sustained us and brought us to this season.”

In this next season of his life, Yaacov will be comfortable and cared for by the dedicated ICEJ team of Christian volunteers serving at the Haifa Home, Israel’s only assisted-living facility solely dedicated to caring for Holocaust survivors in need. In addition, he will be able to befriend other survivors residing at the facility and enjoy all the social interactions and activities provided there.

Your continued support of the Haifa Home ensures that these Holocaust survivors will enjoy a good quality of life for their remaining years.