In a combination of bureaucracy and benevolence, Israeli leaders and volunteers joined at a ceremonial event earlier today, as Israeli President Reuven Rivlin presented an award to volunteers of the renowned chesed organization,Saad U’Marpeh.
The president was accompanied by Jerusalem Deputy Mayor R’ Tzvika Cohen, along with Chairman of the Israeli Lottery Department’s Board of Directors Uzi Dayan. Guests of honor and socialites were present, saluting the dedication of Saad U’Marpeh’s many volunteers.
R’ Cohen was keynote speaker of the evening, lauding the directors and volunteers of the organization, many of whom he is personally acquainted with.
Praising the organization’s devotion to children who are struck by illness or disability, R’ Cohen addressed the crowd with riveting accounts of what these devoted volunteers do. Providing much needed medical advice regarding all aspects of treatment, the services are a balm to families otherwise ill versed in medical situations.
He continued by applauding the staff at Saad U’Marpeh for the additional services they are providing during the current situation in Eretz Yisroel, as volunteers distribute warm meals and pastries to soldiers and law officers securing the streets of Yerushalayim.
Aside from the medical assistance they’re known to provide, Saad U’Marpe’s entire staff is dedicated to instilling happiness in patients through music and entertainment. With musicians and singers visiting hospitals throughout the country, they spread inspiration and hope to those who need it most.
With summer camps for special children, and those with illness and disabilities, the organization provides an amazing opportunity to both the kids and their families. The past year’s summer camp in Yesodot, Yerushalayim, infused campers with scores of activities and day trips. Tzvika praised the significance of these and other many services which make this organization so unique.
Another topic which was addressed throughout the ceremony was the addition of vacations for parents of sick children to various hotels. These forms of respite are a coping mechanism amid the turbulent months of diagnosis and treatment. Transportation to and from hospitals are some of the additional services which Saad U’Marpeh provides. They also offer transportation to medical facilities which are open on Shabbos and Yom Tov.
In his closing remarks, R’ Cohen effusively thanked the volunteers and chairmen of the organization, particularly Motti Fried, Mayer Cohen, and Rachamim Chiyun, all chairmen and administrators at Saad U’Marpeh. He concluded by wishing them continued success in their benevolence toward Klal Yisroel.
For more information about Saad U’Marpeh, visit http://helpgetwell.org/.
PHOTOS OF THE EVENT:
{Matzav.com Israel News Bureau}
