The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews Enlists IDF Soldiers to Bring Elderly a Joyful Sukkot

September 29, 2023

In preparation for the Sukkot holiday, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship) worked together with The Association for Israel Soldiers to help construct sukkot (temporary dwellings built to celebrate the holiday) in senior homes all across the country. 

Representatives from the two organizations matched soldiers stationed at nearby bases with the staff of local homes for the aged, to help build sukkot so that the elderly could celebrate the holiday according to Jewish tradition. All supplies for the project were donated through The Fellowship.

Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of The Fellowship, thanked the soldiers for their kindness. “It’s so moving to witness our beloved young men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line for their country taking this time to reach out to the elderly,” she said. “Many of Israel’s elderly are people who sacrificed so much in life, and they deserve to live out their lives in dignity, and with love and respect.”

IDF soldiers from the 123 Airborne Squadron visited one senior facility nearby in Ashdod.

Valeri, a 78-year-old who grew up in Ukraine, described being moved to tears when they arrived. “Our soldiers mean so much to us,” he said. “Young and old were able to come together to build the sukkah, and we were all able to feel a part of preparing for the holiday. We are so thankful to those who took time to come and make our holiday that much more special.”

A member of the 123 Squadron added, “Our everyday responsibility is to protect the land and people of Israel. But these types of activities add to our sense of meaning and purpose. It was a real privilege to be able to see the smiles on the faces of the elderly as we prepared together for the holiday.”