Through the Hiram Foundation, OBI helped construct a new community center complete with a playground, upgraded safety equipment, furniture and a state-of-the-art computer room.

MOSHAV DISHON, Israel – Eleven-year-old Yair can't walk through the streets of his own neighborhood for fears of being killed by sniper fire.

For him and the other children of Moshav Dishon, only 90 feet separate their small city from the Lebanon border. The city serves as the country's first line of defense in case of a cross-border invasion.

The summer war between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah militants made the people of Moshav Dishon prime targets and rockets rained down on their city. Bombs destroyed the area school, playground, community center and other buildings. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.

Through the Hiram Foundation, OBI helped construct a new community center complete with a playground, upgraded safety equipment, furniture and a state-of-the-art computer room.

"The center is not only making life better for the residents, but it also is making Dishon a more attractive place for potential settlers," said municipal mayor of Dishon, Benni Alan.

The city was founded in the early 1950s. Itzik and Ida were the first couple to move to the area and helped pioneer the efforts to keep the border safe.

"Now we can meet with our friends and have meetings," Itzik said. "This is very important to us. Thank you for your help."

Yair, above, enjoys the grand opening of the community center near his home in Moshav Dishon, which is just 90 feet from the Lebanon border.

In addition to rebuilding a community center in Dishon, OBI also helped fund another center in Akko. The brand new facility is used as a focal point of activities for the residents.

"The war was horrible," said 8-year-old Ruth. "I hated being in bomb shelters."

Now children like Ruth and Yair have a place where they can safely play as well as participate in after school activities and extracurricular learning programs.

"I can not tell you how much we appreciate your support, we needed you and we thank you very much," said Yair's mother, Brigita.

Both centers celebrated their grand opening during Hanukah.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
As violence in the Middle East persists, OBI is on the frontlines, bringing humanitarian relief to refugee families who are in need of food, water and basic aid. Help OBI ease the suffering of those caught in the violence by making an online donation today toward our efforts in the Middle East.

 

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