A vacation isn’t just about flights and hotels; it’s a profound psychological need!

Have you ever imagined the soothing sound of ocean waves? Going on nature hikes? Climbing mountains? Exploring new cultures? Laughing with your kids? Creating unforgettable memories with loved ones?

Some of you may have already embarked on a vacation or are eagerly awaiting your planned getaway. Others, not so much. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t have a trip on the horizon – you’re not alone. The high cost of living in Israel and worldwide makes it challenging for many to take a vacation, despite its necessity. For some, a vacation might seem like an unattainable dream.

But remember, a vacation isn’t just about money or social status. It’s a deep emotional need, an opportunity to break away from routine, reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones, and experience moments of renewal and joy. Numerous studies show a link between money and mental well-being – a lack of it can lead to feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety. Other research highlights the connection between vacations and mental well-being, showing they reduce stress and depression.

The takeaway? Even if funds are tight, it’s worth taking a modest break or creating moments of escape from the daily grind.

Look for creative ways to get away, even if it’s small, short, or a series of experiences spread over two months. Explore nearby springs and nature trails, take a train ride, set up a tent, have a bonfire with a pot of stew, visit the sea or our lovely Kinneret… The sounds of waves, new scenery, and creating memories with your loved ones are possible anywhere, anytime.

Because a vacation isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling! ❤️

It’s not easy being a family member of someone with a mental health disability. This role comes with many emotional challenges – facing oneself, society, community, and the family member struggling with the disability. It involves dilemmas, navigating rights and benefits, encouraging motivation, and much more. The role demands patience, tapping into internal and external resources, crisis management, and dealing with a spectrum of emotions, complex family dynamics, and situations.

That’s why last Thursday, about 250 wonderful wives, sisters, and mothers of people with mental disabilities enjoyed a day of fun and empowerment called ‘Power Station’, organized by Bayit Cham’s “T’chelet” Center in Haifa. T’chelet provides support for families of people with mental health disabilities in the religious/ultra-Orthodox sector, in collaboration with Israel’s Ministry of Health.

The Power Station event’s goal is to provide coping tools and offer relaxation, rest, and renewed strength, enabling these women to recharge their batteries and continue fulfilling their crucial roles. It was a unique day where they were the focus!

They gathered at Moshav Kitron for a full day of fascinating, empowering lectures and workshops on parenting, faith, the power of speech, and more. A Playback Theatre (Maidele) emotionally and humorously portrayed their stories. They were moved by an artistic performance by a person with mental health challenges that shattered stigmas, enjoyed empowering group singing, relaxed by the pool, and of course, savored good meals, treats, and gifts with uplifting messages to keep in mind.

The T’chelet team and additional Bayit Cham staff worked hard to organize this retreat. The touching feedback like “Thank you for being there”, “You gave me so much strength”, “It was perfect”, and many more emotional responses made it all worthwhile.

A key role of the T’chelet Center is breaking stigmas, normalizing the struggle, and reducing shame associated with living alongside mental health challenges. We were touched to see the women sitting together, sharing and understanding, getting a moment of relief and recognition. We’re proud of this event. It probably could not have happened without intensive community connections and constant, highly-sensitive efforts to provide activities and make knowledge accessible to more families and audiences throughout the year. We’re grateful for this opportunity 🙏 because everyone deserves quality, joyful family life!

So, we take this opportunity to thank the dear women who participated in the retreat. We’re proud of you and all the families supported by the center.

We extend a huge thank you to the entire T’chelet team and all Bayit Cham staff and management who helped make this amazing event happen 🙏🏆❤️

Rest now, because soon there will be a Power Station for men too…😉

Wishing everyone all the best ❤️

Despite the challenges and complexities, they have contributed their part to the country. Like all other veterans, they are now seeking their next step in the workforce.

As part of National and Civil Service Appreciation Week, a job fair was held this week at the Exhibition Grounds for young people with disabilities who are nearing the end of their service. The fair aimed to present all the opportunities available to them after their service, and we were there too!

At the Bayit Cham booth, representatives of the “Keshet” program shared, guided, and explained our valuable programs: personal or group support for integration into the open job market. These crucial and powerful services are essential for the success of people with disabilities in integrating into society. Going it alone is admirable, but it can often be challenging and less successful. With us, it’s super possible and works wonderfully!

We are proud of all who have served and are finishing their service 🏆 A big thank you to Racheli, Dikla, and Gil for their important outreach. We are here if you want to integrate into the open job market and need assistance ❤️ Talk to us: 054-2622009

These remarkable employees have not only broken through glass ceilings, working in mainstream employment for two years now, but they’ve also mastered their jobs from scratch. Today, they’re every employer’s dream! Beyond their professional growth, each of them has undergone an incredible personal journey. What’s more, they’ve formed strong friendships and have become a tightly-knit group!

The Bayit Cham professional staff who support them at work ensure high-quality integration, focusing on both social aspects and fostering a sense of belonging.❤️

Their day out included:

🔅 Bowling

🔅 A delicious meal

🔅 Team activities led by the staff

A huge thank you to Dikla, the group manager, and Dorit, the amazing instructor with a big heart who embraces everyone with love as if they were her own children, showing endless dedication.

It was a blast! They’re simply an awesome bunch! 😉❤️

A week ago, they went out for two packed days of team bonding, camaraderie, joy, and enjoyment!

Thirty-two administrative staff members (clinic secretaries, accounting, human resources, fundraising, administration, and more) gathered in Netanya by the sea. They enjoyed a sumptuous meal, participated in a “value-added” activity, received surprise greetings, warm praise, and blessings from family members, enjoyed the pool and boardwalk, took part in an ODT activity about what matters to them in life, uplifted their spirits with a unique film, and had an amazing meal they prepared themselves in a stunning chef workshop. With all the adrenaline and fun, they stayed up until the wee hours of the morning to chat and laugh heart to heart.

And why is this so special? Because the atmosphere was incredibly joyful and supportive, each participant had her special place, there was a sense of unit pride, they came from all over Israel and bonded with love. They hadn’t gone on vacation for a long time, the venue and perks were fantastic, and the activities were thrilling and unifying – the goal was achieved!

So, dear administrative staff, you deserve this more than anyone in the world! You work hard, with immense dedication to the smooth operation of the powerhouse that is Bayit Cham! Thank you so much for who you are and for everything you do🙏 You are a huge source of pride!❤️

And of course, thanks to Bayit Cham’s management for enabling and supporting the event, and special thanks to Michal, the champion planner who thought of every detail, and to her partners in this great investment: Orly, Shulamit, Chani, and Nechami😇🏆