Melabev must continue its work with the elderly in Beit Shemesh

I would like to share with you a curious statistic:

In greater Beit Shemesh, there is over 56 high schools (al ysodi), and thirty-four elementary schools (yesodi). * In contrast, there is one day care center that specializes in the needs of memory impaired elders.

And that one center, Melabev, is in danger of closing down.

Why?

The seniors that attend Melabev are people that led active professional lives, survived and fought in wars in Israel, Europe, Asia. These are the people that contributed hard work, dedication and financial backing to build this country and it’s institutions-young and old alike. One of the members – Leah Stern was an active member of Amit, an organization that greatly aids the disadvantaged youth of Israel.

But let me get a little personal. My own mother attends Melabev. With tears in her eyes, she recounts marching on the streets of NY on May 1948, and giving her whole allowance to Keren Kayemet. My mother is not religious, but ardently Zionist. I inherited her ideology as if it were mother's milk. I am here today, living in Israel, because of her beliefs and commitments.

My mother developed Alzheimers 6 months before my father passed away unexpectedly.  As the only child able to care for her, I brought her on Aliyah. Caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s is no simple task.It is physically challenging, time consuming and emotionally draining.  Without Melabev, my task as caregiver would not be possible.

As Elie Wiesel says, “Alzheimers is like a book which pages are torn out one by one. Melabev preserves the remaining pages, and keeps the book turning. The skilled and sensitive staff of Melabev are trained in dealing with memory impaired elders to keep them active involved –physically and mentally-to maintain the best quality of life they can.

While there is another center in Beit Shemesh, it doesn't address the unique needs of the memory impaired.  It is not the appropriate environment for my mother and many others who attend melabev. If, G-d forbid, Melabev would close down, I am terribly concerned my mother’s condition will deteriorate.
By ensuring that Melabev has a permanent, safe and senior friendly building , my mother and other members will be able to continue receiving the attentive, caring and specialized care that they deserve. Let's work together and make it happen.

B’shaym Hashem natzliach,
Ellen Greenfield,

Daughter of Beatrice Schneider

*this statistic is only reflective of the chareide community