As Boys Town Jerusalem’s doors opened on the first day of the 2024-25 schoolyear, nearly 900 boys found a haven from the ongoing war around them. Yet for many, the battleground was their own homes, where poverty and family conflicts have reached hazardous levels.
Several boys were victims of domestic violence
A great many parents are now unemployed, BTJ Junior High Principal Rabbi Yehudah Rosencrantz reports, as poverty levels spike. “Record numbers of students come from single-parent homes, with many in crisis. Over the summer, several boys who were victims of domestic violence were placed in protective shelters, leaving these students emotionally scarred.”
Support from donors is a priceless gift
The generous, loving contributions from donors worldwide have provided hope in these challenging times, the principal shared. “As so many parents beg for help, we can now grant full tuition scholarships, books and school supplies, after-school activities, clothing, and other necessities for more and more boys in dire need. This support is a priceless gift for their future.”
Students are still dealing with trauma from the war
The shadow of the ongoing war darkens every student’s path, while uncertainty and danger take a toll, Rabbi Rosencrantz said. “Students whose brothers or close relatives have been injured are suffering their own emotional wounds. We’re striving to offer them healing and strength.”
Psychological support for students is all thanks to donors
Thanks to BTJ supporters, the school’s social work department is now being bolstered by three therapists specializing in providing psychological support to students. For teachers, comprehensive workshops will be conducted in guiding them to identify signals of student distress, with workshops for parents scheduled to begin shortly.
“In wartime, we must be prepared for all scenarios,” the principal stressed. “At the same time, we must foster our students’ confidence, faith and hope for better days.”