The camp was attended by about 850 children, with and without special needs, along with the professional team accompanying them which includes social workers, medical teams, volunteers and KKL-JNF instructors. The camp was held for five days in Eilat, and included a variety of enriching activities: a memorial for the fallen soldiers, water sports, beach parties, pajama parties, dawn trips and more.
The peak event took place on Tuesday, with a performance of Israel singer Benaia Barabi with the foundation's children and children evacuated to Eilat during the Swords of Iron war.
11-year-old Shaham Masuri, who struggles with a CP disease, was excited: "I have a coach who comes to me every week, and we do a lot of fun stuff together. Once a month we also join the group activities, that are always well-planned, but now I'm mostly waiting for the camp in Eilat! The chance to speak other children who face a chronic disease, play cards, spend time with the coaches, travel and have fun – there's nothing like 'Happiness for the Child'! I feel like it's my second family."
Odaya Biling, coordinator of community project, newcomers and special needs in KKL-JNF: "at KKL-JNF we are glad to collaborate with 'Happiness for the Child'. KKL-JNF works extensively among populations with special needs, in a variety of recreational activities and in helping their integration within society. Specifically, in this troubled period, among evacuees with special needs. KKL-JNF will continues to invest and initiate varied activities for the benefit of the residents, the time has come to unite and help others."
"Happiness for the Child" chair, Eli Kellerman: "We are glad and excited to see the camp happening again, despite the challenging period for Israel. This camp is important and critical for the children's emotional treatment, and we thank KKL-JNF for the collaboration without which this would not have happened."