Chanukah is supposed to be a joyous time for children everywhere. A time for draydels and latkes, donuts and gifts. Yet there are literally hundreds of chronically and congenitally sick children who languish in hospitals from the day the are born. These children have been abandoned by impoverished and overwhelmed parents, and have known no other home than a dismal hospital ward.
Colel Chabad staff and volunteers visit these children – especially on Chanukah – bringing with them clowns and musicians, candies and cakes, dancing and skits. And, of course they bring toys, toys, toys -- all brand new and shiny. These toys are your gifts to children who deserve a little love and happiness and so much more. For them, Colel Chabad is the only family they have.
During the long summer months these children cannot go to camp, so Colel Chabad brings camp to them. Each day, in the playrooms of participating hospitals, boys and girls put on their camp tee shirts and hats. Together with volunteer counselors, they sing camp songs, play games, enjoy special performances, and work on arts and crafts projects.
Doctors and nurses are constantly amazed. Our visiting summer camp makes miracles happen. Listless children come to life. Appetites are renewed. Curiosity and excitement abound. Camp is important for every child. But for these children it is truly a new lease on life.
