About a month after Hanukkah, we look back on a meaningful initiative carried out as part of the Widows of Operation Swords of Iron project, led jointly by Orot Israel College and the Rambam Heritage Center. Ahead of the holiday, a unique gift package was distributed to a group of widows connected to the College—women who are alumnae, current students, or whose spouses studied at Orot Israel College and fell during Israel’s wars.
This is a group we have been accompanying closely for the past two years. For each holiday, we strive to offer a thoughtfully chosen gift along with invitations to meaningful gatherings and events. This initiative is part of a broader effort at Orot Israel College to maintain a deep, ongoing connection with families of the fallen—strengthening and supporting these women throughout the year in close partnership with the Rambam Heritage Center.
The Hanukkah gift package included a natural self-care set, a beautifully designed candle-lighting kit, a family Hanukkah game box with eight games to encourage connection and joy, and a personal blessing written for each woman. In addition, collaboration was recently expanded with the Department for Jewish Culture, which invited the widows and their families to Hanukkah events across the country, allowing each family to choose an activity best suited to them.
Although the war may be over, the need remains. These women continue to face daily challenges, and our commitment to them does not end with the headlines. We are now preparing the next gift initiative for Tu Bishvat, and invite those who wish to take part in supporting the Widows of Operation Swords of Iron to partner with us.
To learn more or to donate toward the upcoming Tu Bishvat gift, please contact:
Together, we can continue to offer care, presence, and light—long after the holidays have passed.