Passover is a time of resilience and renewal, a reminder that even after profound loss, rebuilding is possible. This message feels especially urgent this year and is reflected in the work of ISRAEL ORPHANS OF 10/7, work that depends on the support of those who choose to give.
On October 7, while sheltering in a bunker with her daughter, Marlene Kolangi made a life altering decision. She put her career as a bridal designer on hold to focus entirely on helping children and families impacted by the tragedies. In the days that followed, she recognized a devastating gap: children who had physically lost both parents on October 7th had no one dedicated to their support, and the question became, who is going to be there to help these children? In response, she founded ISRAEL ORPHANS OF 10/7 to care for these children and support their long term healing, an effort made possible through donor support.
As Marlene spent more time in Israel working closely with families, she saw another urgent need. Many children had not lost both parents physically, but had effectively lost them emotionally and mentally due to severe trauma. She expanded the organization’s reach to include these children, ensuring that no child facing this level of loss would be overlooked.
Today, ISRAEL ORPHANS OF 10/7 stands apart in its mission. It is doing what no other charitable organization is currently doing by providing specialized, long term, and deeply personalized support for children affected by this unique form of loss, care that continues because of ongoing generosity.
At the heart of the organization is its Play Therapy Center, currently the only one in Israel. The space is intentionally warm, welcoming, and far from your traditional clinical or sterile therapy setting, designed instead to feel safe and nurturing for children coping with deep trauma. Through art, equine therapy, dog therapy, cooking, movement, and creative play guided by licensed professionals, children begin to rebuild trust, regulate emotions, and rediscover a sense of safety. Plans are already underway to open two additional centers in Israel this year, an expansion that relies on continued donations.
The organization also provides monthly financial stipends, offering families stability during ongoing uncertainty and allowing children to focus on healing and growth. Marlene’s personal commitment remains constant, as she calls each family every Shabbat to check in and ensure their needs are met.
The impact is already visible. Children who once arrived withdrawn are beginning to open up and experience moments of joy again. While their journey is far from over, they are no longer walking it alone, thanks to the support they receive.
As Passover reminds us, even in the darkest times, renewal is possible. Through consistent support and genuine connection, these children are slowly rebuilding their lives. What this charity provides is not just immediate care, but a path toward deep, long term healing that helps these children grow into stronger, healthier individuals for tomorrow. Your support makes this possible. Please consider making a donation to help ISRAEL ORPHANS OF 10/7 continue this vital work and bring lasting healing and hope to the children who need it most. Causematch.com/healingheroes
Rebuilding Hope: Supporting Israel’s Orphans Through War and Beyond
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