A suitcase full of memories

Alona Russo lost her father, Uri, on October 7, while he was defending Kibbutz Kfar Aza. This past summer, Russo and other Israeli tween orphans spent three memorable weeks on the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization’s annual b’nai mitzvah celebration trip to North America.

“With these kids, I felt connections because they understand me,” Russo explained.
Of the 20 children who participated in this year’s trip, 15 were orphaned due to the Hamas attacks on October 7 and the ensuing war with Hamas.

“We know that this memorable experience of community-building, healing, and adventure will help these incredible b’nai mitzvah kids continue to foster resilience and independence as they embark on their new journey, into adulthood,” said Shlomi Nahumson, CEO of the IDF Widows and Orphans Organizations.

“The trip has been so special because these kids experienced the same things I did,” Russo said. “My highlight of the trip was when we sat in a circle and told our fathers’ stories–how much we miss and love them. It was really great to hear other kids’ stories, because I am always hearing and telling my own, and I want[ed] to hear those of others.”

The experience was an opportunity for these children to connect with their peers, while being embraced and celebrated by local Jewish communities, including here in Chicago. Together, they enjoyed major attractions–including Niagara Falls, The Bean, and Times Square–and spent time just being teens at JCC Camp Chi.

“I hope that nobody else has to go on this trip because it is for orphans,” Russo said. “But if they do go, I know they will have so much fun and make lifelong memories.”

IDF Widows and Orphans Organization is a recipient of a grant through JUF’s Israel Emergency Fund.