February 2025 Newsletter

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As I write this month’s update, I find myself overwhelmed with conflicting emotions. For months, we have been praying and advocating for the return of the hostages held in Gaza. We worried about how they and their families were enduring these unimaginable circumstances. We felt immense relief and joy for those who were released and reunited with their loved ones. Yet, we continued to hold our breath, hoping, praying, and advocating for those who remained captive.

The plight of the Bibas family, in particular, captured the hearts of people around the world. We held onto hope that two young boys, Ariel and Kfir, taken hostage alongside their mother, Shiri, were somehow still alive. When their father, Yarden, was released, we prayed it was only a matter of time before the rest of the family would also be freed.


Then, the devastating news arrived—Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir had been murdered in Gaza. Our hearts shattered. As I watched the funeral, I found myself asking, “How does this happen in a civilized world? How are we to hold onto hope when a mother and her two young children are killed simply because of their nationality or religion?”

Grief washed over me, leaving me with an overwhelming sense of loss.


But then, I thought about ALYN Hospital—the extraordinary institution I have the honor of supporting and representing. ALYN is a place where children the same age as Ariel and Kfir receive care and healing. It is a place where Muslims and Jews, Arabs and Israelis, people of all backgrounds and languages, come together for a singular purpose: to help children in need. At ALYN, there is no division, no barriers—only the unwavering commitment to provide hope and healing to every child who needs it.


And so, even in the midst of this profound sorrow, I find hope. Hope that the spirit of ALYN—the spirit of compassion, unity, and humanity—will one day triumph over the forces of hatred and violence. Hope that, somehow, someday, the world will embrace the values that ALYN embodies, and that the darkness that stole Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir from us will be replaced by light.



Am Yisrael Chai!

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YOUNG LEADERSHIP SHABBAT

On January 31st, AFAH hosted its first young leadership event in Manhattan, bringing together an incredible group for a meaningful and lively Shabbat experience. We partnered with Kibbutz NYC, a vibrant community group that organizes monthly Shabbat gatherings across the city, and we can’t thank them enough for their support in making this event a success.

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CHANGE IN LOCATION & BRING A FRIEND 

Come learn about Wheels of Love with Aviva Lavi:
Tuesday, March 4 at 6pm
Havana Centra 151 W 46th St, NYC

With special thanks to Jeremy Merrin for again donating his restaurant for us to dive into the inspiring world of ALYN and Wheels of Love with future riders.

ALYN HOSPITAL PURIM CARDS!

There's still time to purchase ALYN Hospital Purim cards! Instead of sending a traditional mishloach manot basket, gift your family and friends with a donation to ALYN Hospital. You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36

Place your order today!

Wed, March 5 is the order deadline.
You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36.

STAY CONNECTED