As Iran’s attacks on Israel intensify, the Neve Michael Children’s Residential Home, operated by NGO World Emunah, acts as a vital refuge in protecting and caring for some of the country’s most vulnerable children in an increasingly unstable environment. Amidst continued threats, this home is providing an extra level of safety for young children during stressful times. 

Located in central Israel, Neve Michael is home to children who have already experienced significant trauma and displacement. In recent days, as missile sirens continue to wail and national anxiety rises, the center’s staff have doubled down on their mission: to preserve a sense of stability, comfort, and hope.

Despite the added challenge of several staff members being called to IDF reserve duty, the remaining team has been working tirelessly around the clock. Safe rooms have been transformed into welcoming spaces, stocked with food, blankets, and games to create a sense of both physical and emotional safety.

"Children are baking, playing in the gardens during safe hours, and engaging in art indoors," said a spokesperson for Neve Michael. "Our focus is on preserving joy and structure in their lives — even in times of chaos."

Emunah is one of Israel’s leading social action organizations and was founded over 80 years ago to help give homes to children arriving in Israel after the Holocaust. The organization’s activities are largely focused on education, social welfare, and societal change through legislation, aiming to strengthen the Jewish family, advance the status of women, and encourage volunteer activities.

Children at the Neve Michael Children’s Residential Home. (credit: World Emunah)
Children at the Neve Michael Children’s Residential Home. (credit: World Emunah)

Messages of hope and resilience are emphasized

With schools temporarily suspended and celebrations postponed, the emotional well-being of the children has become the center’s highest priority. Emergency team meetings have led to the development of age-appropriate methods to explain the situation. Staff are emphasizing messages of hope and resilience, reinforcing that the children are not alone — and that Israel stands strong with them.

“At Neve Michael, we are not just caregivers,” said one senior staff member. “We are a frontline response to childhood trauma. The strength we show here today becomes the foundation of strength these children will carry for life.”

World Emunah Director Meira Lerner echoed that sentiment, praising the dedication of staff across all Emunah centers throughout Israel.

“We at World Emunah are incredibly proud of all of the Emunah homes and centers here on the ground and the staff who are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the children in our care,” Lerner said. “Emunah will continue to be there for all of Israel’s vulnerable children, women, and families throughout this difficult time.”

She added a note of gratitude to those securing Israel’s home front:

“We are deeply grateful to Israel’s emergency services and the IDF for carrying the nation during these challenging days.”

Even under threat, the work of Neve Michael continues — quietly, compassionately, and powerfully — ensuring that every child in its care knows they are loved, protected, and never alone.