Yes Day

The prolonged reality of war since October 7th has taken a heavy emotional toll on Israeli children throughout the country. This is true whether they directly experienced acts of violence by Hamas or Hezbollah terrorists or Iranian missiles, or had family members or friends affected by the hostilities. The "Yes Day" project of the Merit Spread Foundation, generously initiated and funded by the Sandler family, provides children a much-needed break from their ongoing emotional hardship. Below are just two of the programs featured in the "Yes Day" project:

The horse farm activity offers a therapeutic and experiential day of fun for children affected by the war, aiming to provide them with a safe, worry-free, and joyful space where they can simply be children again. Surrounded by the farm’s quiet, green setting, the children participate in empowering activities centered around a deep connection with horses—including guided riding, grooming and caring for the animals, and collaborative ground activities designed to build resilience and self-confidence. In addition, the day features a creative arts corner for emotional expression and a comforting lunch of freshly baked pizzas and warm Belgian waffles, coming together to create an enveloping experience of healing, hope, joy, and light for children who have endured challenging

times.

Another activity is Kung Fu martial arts classes, offered as part of the “Warrior for Life” program. The activity takes place in neighborhoods with some of the most difficult socioeconomic conditions. Many of the children spend their afternoons in the streets, unsupervised, in an environment marked by violence and crime, and return to homes struggling to survive daytoday. In the chaotic reality of the war - which greatly intensified the distress of children who are already coping with severe challenges - the emphasis in the classes goes beyond survival. It includes personal empowerment and encouragement for growth, developing behavioral guidelines for interacting with their surroundings, respect for others, and discipline.

On days when the education system is not operating due to attacks on Israel, the children have asked to continue the “Warrior for Life” lessons even via Zoom.