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Last summer, something magical happened at Camp Zeke.
Children from the North of Israel —displaced by war, scattered from their homes and friends—came to camp for three unforgettable weeks. They swam, danced, cooked, sang, played sports, and welcomed Shabbat under the stars. For a few precious weeks, fear was replaced by laughter. Grief gave way to joy. Disconnection turned into belonging.
In the words of their parents:
“It was the highlight of their summer, and a bright moment in a tough, and emotionally draining year.”
“Camp Zeke gave them moments of joy, connection, and healing—things they desperately needed.”
“I read your request for donations to support the children of the north, and I was moved to tears.
It’s important for me to say that words cannot describe the meaning and impact of your loving camp for our children during such a traumatic period in their lives. Recently, I read an essay my son wrote, describing how during the war, he stayed strong so he could help me take care of his siblings because my husband was in the army. He had to be strong to study in a hotel room, live in crowded conditions, without his friends, and face countless challenges and changes we went through after being evacuated from our home. On top of that, there were the anxieties and stress caused by the constant missile attacks around us.
The camp allowed my son to be a child again—to laugh, to play, and to enjoy life—basic experiences that every child deserves.
Thanks to you, he was able to feel a moment of sanity.
I am filled with gratitude and appreciation for the mitzvah you are fulfilling—wonderful people who help children’s souls and restore the emotional strength that was so deeply affected. Thank you! Am Yisrael Chai!”
Since then, their community has begun the slow and difficult process of rebuilding. Families returned to damaged homes. Services are still limited. Children are still healing.
But that summer gave them strength. It reminded them of what was possible. It was magic—and you helped make it happen.
This summer, we’re creating that magic again – for a new group of children.
We’re expanding the program to welcome new campers from the Northern District of Israel, and also a community in the South, all deeply affected by the October 7 attacks and the ongoing conflict. These children have not been to Camp Zeke before. They are still living with the emotional and educational toll of displacement, trauma, and instability. But with your help, they will experience the same healing joy that last year’s campers did.
These teens need to get away from the rockets and spend time just being kids.
We are deeply grateful to have generous returning support from UJA-Federation of New York, Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, the Give Camp Fund, and a growing network of committed Camp Zeke families and friends. Their partnership is helping to lay the foundation for another unforgettable summer.
But we cannot do it without you. This is your opportunity to have a direct impact on a teen’s life.
If you’d like to discuss this campaign and how you can make a difference, you can reach our founders directly by emailing lisa.and.isaac@campzeke.org or calling 212-913-9783.
Your generosity offers stability in a time of uncertainty. It gives children who have faced fear and displacement the chance to experience joy, connection, and the magic of Camp Zeke. And it reminds these Israeli families that they are not alone—that the Camp Zeke community stands beside them with care and support.
