Rebuilding Childhood: A Passover Story Of Healing And Hope

Israel Orphans of 10-7

Credit @ashkenazi

Passover is a time of memory and renewal, a moment when we gather to tell the story of hardship, resilience, and ultimately, redemption. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is the possibility of rebuilding, of reclaiming life, and of creating a future rooted in hope. This year, as families sit around their Seder tables, one story in particular reflects the very essence of that journey: the work of Israel Orphans of 10/7.

Before October 7, Marlene Kolangi lived in a world defined by beauty and celebration, designing couture bridal and evening wear. On that devastating day, while sheltering in a bunker with her daughter, her thoughts turned to the children who would be left without parents. When she realized no organization was focused on their needs, she made a life changing decision. She would create one.

From that resolve, Israel Orphans of 10/7 was born.

The organization stands today as the first and only initiative solely dedicated to the long term healing of children who lost one or both parents on or since October 7. It addresses a painful truth that can easily be overshadowed by headlines. Beyond the immediate devastation, there are children whose lives have been permanently altered, whose sense of safety has been shattered, and whose childhoods must now be rebuilt.

At the heart of this mission is Israel’s first Play Therapy Center designed specifically for these children. This is not your traditional clinical therapy. There are no sterile offices or intimidating clinical settings. Instead, children enter a space that feels warm, safe, and familiar, where healing happens through play.

They paint, they cook, they interact with animals, they ride horses, and they build and create. To them, it feels like ordinary childhood activities. In reality, every moment is carefully guided by licensed clinicians using evidence based therapeutic methods. Through art, movement, and connection, children begin to process trauma, regulate their emotions, and slowly rediscover a sense of safety. In addition to therapeutic care, the organization is also helping these children create new positive memories during an otherwise painful chapter, giving them moments of joy, connection, and childhood that are essential to true healing.

The results have been profound. Children who once arrived withdrawn and silent are beginning to express themselves again. Those who were once overwhelmed by fear are learning to trust, to connect, and even to experience joy. These moments are small but powerful, and they represent the first steps in reclaiming what was taken from them.

Israel Orphans of 10/7 recognizes that healing cannot happen in isolation. Alongside therapy, the organization provides monthly financial stipends to families navigating unimaginable loss. Even in the midst of ongoing conflict, when access to Israel is limited, these stipends continue to be sent, ensuring that families receive critical support despite the challenges on the ground. These stipends offer stability in households that have suddenly been reshaped by tragedy and allow children the space to focus not just on survival, but on recovery. Beyond these programs, Marlene remains personally connected to each family, calling them every Shabbat to check in, offer support, and understand what they may need, ensuring that no one feels forgotten or alone.

Looking ahead, the organization is working to expand its reach, with plans to open two additional therapy centers in the coming year. The goal is clear and urgent. It is to ensure that every child affected has access to the care, support, and community they need.

The children of Israel Orphans of 10/7 are still in the midst of their journey. But with the support of this community, they are not walking it alone. They are rebuilding, step by step and moment by moment, finding light where there was once only darkness.

And that, perhaps, is the most powerful Passover message of all. Even after profound loss, renewal is possible, and hope can be rebuilt.

As this vital work continues, the organization has launched its Healing Our Heroes fundraising campaign to expand access to therapy, support additional families, and open new centers for children in need. Community support is essential to sustaining and growing these efforts. Every contribution helps ensure that these children receive the care, stability, and compassion they deserve as they rebuild their lives.

To be part of this work, please visit Causematch.com/healingheroes.n