Rachel Azaria, Haifa's darling • Lives in the "Yad Ezer Haber" complex, happy and content with her lot

A legacy of open-heartedness and civic responsibility

Today, at the age of 88, when she is no longer engaged in public activity, the stories of Rachel Azaria's work remain as a living spirit among the pages, memories and hearts. Her work inspired generations of activists and educators and left a mark of truth – one that does not fade with time. She proved that change can be brought about through determination, inner justice and love for humanity.

In the past, Rachel Azaria was a key figure in the fight for the rights of the elderly and pensioners in Israel. A single woman, full of courage, who became synonymous with dedication, determination and deep compassion. For many years, Rachel dedicated her time, energy and heart to those whom society tends to forget – so that they could live with dignity, have their voices heard and correct injustices that should not exist in a civilized country.

A stubborn struggle out of a deep mission

Rachel did not see her public activity as a position or role – but rather a mission. She helped senior citizens deal with bureaucratic difficulties, housing problems, social rights and even personal matters, sometimes with close, almost familial support. Many of them testified that without her – they would not have received the benefits they were entitled to by law.

In Haifa, Rachel Azaria's name is well-known and beloved by many. As part of her activities on the city's Zionist Council, she was not just another council member – but the living spirit behind many cultural initiatives. She was tasked with inviting guests, engaging them in discussions and establishing enriching channels of dialogue between veterans and young people, between past and future. Her persona radiated resourcefulness, human warmth and a rare ability to unite an environment of Zionist values, culture and identity.

Teaching history with an open heart

One of the most exciting chapters in her work was in the field of informal education. For years, she gave series of lectures on the history of the Land of Israel – from the days of the first aliyah to the establishment of the state. She accompanied the lectures with carefully selected Hebrew songs, with the intention of illustrating through music the national sentiment and the story of the people. She captivated audiences in colleges, community centers and assisted living – while ensuring eloquent language and rich content.

Initiating change in the legislative arena as well

Rachel Azaria not only worked in the field, but also in decision-making centers. She took part in the struggles for legislative amendments designed to correct serious distortions in the field of national insurance, and to provide a response to the unique needs of Holocaust survivors.

With the help of her connections with public figures, lawyers, and social activists, she contributed greatly to formulating solutions, some of which even reached the tables of VIPs and the Knesset.

The Magic That Opens Doors: The First Meeting with Rachel Azaria

The first meeting with Rachel Azaria is a moment that is hard to forget – a moment that begins with a smile, but not just any smile. It is a smile that plays through her blue eyes, which manage to say so much even before a sound is heard. They express deep emotion, are full of inner joy, and radiate genuine optimism – one that has no fakery, only simple and good truth.

In those eyes there is also a child's curiosity, a sister's empathy, and a kindness that hovers around her like a halo. Rachel Azaria doesn't just look – she sees. And it doesn't matter if you are a friend, a colleague, or a stranger she met by chance on the street – she will treat you as if you have always been there.

Her warmth creates an almost mythical chain reaction around her. Her human connections break boundaries – literally. When Azaria arrives to allow me to park in the area near where she lives, even the guard of the exclusive parking lot (reserved only for the nearby institution) who usually does not respond to strangers’ inquiries, welcomes her like an old friend. A broad smile spreads across his face, while she, with a small, almost imperceptible movement, signals to him – and then the heavy iron barrier immediately rises. This is not an act of privilege – this is simply magic, human, that belongs entirely to her.

A Journey of Hope and Determination: The Life Story of Haifa's Darling Rachel Azaria

Between Tel Aviv during the days of the founding of the state and today's Haifa, between personal pain and public contribution - the life story of Mrs. Rachel Azaria unfolds, a woman who grew out of challenging life circumstances and chose to dedicate her years to the common good.

At the age of 81, Rachel was recognized as the "Dear Haifa" for 2018, a decoration that is much more than an award - it is recognition of a rare, humane and inspiring life journey.

Childhood between war and reconstruction

Rachel Azaria was born in Tel Aviv in 1937 to her parents, David and Tzilla Bernstein, a Holocaust survivor, and they had four children. Rachel had an adult brother (who passed away a few years ago) and two other siblings, one of whom currently lives in Kiryat Ata and the other in Bat Galim. Her childhood was spent in the shadow of the reality that characterized life before the establishment of the state. Her father, a cook by profession, was forced to move the family home due to his financial situation. First to Jerusalem and then to Tiberias.

Rachel's childhood experiences included not only wandering but also a serious injury. This was when she was hospitalized for about six months after boiling milk was spilled on her leg, and thanks to the resourcefulness of a particularly caring doctor, her leg was not amputated. The War of Independence led the family back to Tel Aviv, to her grandfather's house, which was an island of stability amidst the turmoil of the times.

The road was built in Haifa

Moving to Haifa in 1951, following her father's new job in the Navy, marked the beginning of a new path. Rachel attended elementary school A, and after graduating from eighth grade at the age of 14, she went to work. She found her place at the Haifa port as a customs agent - a girl in an adult world, who does not give up responsibility or independence.

Although she did not finish high school as a teenager, Rachel did not give up on her education. After years of work and dedication, as a mother of children, she completed her matriculation exams as part of the evening studies of "ORT", and continued her academic studies at the University of Haifa. She chose the departments of Land of Israel Studies and Israeli Thought, and even went on to obtain a master's degree in the civilizations of her time - a late but honorable personal realization.

On Balfour Declaration Day: This is how 19-year-old Rachel chose to write the beginning of her life

On a historic day that became part of her personal story, Rachel, only 19 years old, chose to tie the knot with her first husband and the father of her children – specifically on November 2, the day of the Balfour Declaration. It was no coincidence that she chose a date that symbolizes hope for the fulfillment of a national dream; in her own heart, too, it was the beginning of a private dream – a partnership, love, a shared future.

Rachel married Moshe Baruch at the Salonikai Synagogue in Haifa. In a deeply traditional atmosphere and surrounded by family memories, family and friends gathered to celebrate the union. The party was modest but filled with joy, full of light and promise.

Moshe, who worked at the Haifa Port, did not give up on education. Together with Rachel, the two enrolled in academic studies, their path being paved thanks to scholarships from the Spanish Federation. With faith and determination, they walked together to study at the university – a couple who wanted a future of depth and meaning for themselves. Moshe completed a master's degree in social work, and as mentioned, Rachel completed her studies in the departments of Land of Israel Studies and Israeli Thought and even continued on to a master's degree in maritime civilizations.

Professional mission and difficult life experience

Much of Rachel's life was dedicated to public service. She worked for many years in the employment service, especially in the placement of disabled people and in promoting work for people with disabilities and special needs. In this work, she also had to deal with dangers: in 1988, while working in Migdal HaEmek, she was attempted to murder by a man who came to her office. The difficult experience marked the end of her professional career and she retired – but she did not stop working.

A family with roots and a contribution to generations

Rachel Azaria is the mother of three: Yehuda (born 1957) is an international scientist, professor of industry and management living in London, Yifa (born 1959) a graduate of the Hebrew Literature Department, owner of a publishing house, living in Old Safed, and Yaron (born 1970) who has a PhD in environmental quality, is currently a retiree who worked for an electricity company and lives in Tivon.

She is the grandmother of 12 grandchildren, and the great-grandmother of 24 great-grandchildren – all living testimony to a tree of life that grew from difficult soil. The daughter of a Holocaust survivor, who fought herself to build a different and better future for future generations.

A new beginning in the Ahuza neighborhood: a second love story, of Rachel and Aaron

For many years, Rachel lived her life in the north, between the streets of Kiryat Motzkin and the Tzur Shalom neighborhood in Kiryat Bialik, surrounded by family and memories accumulated over the years. But it was precisely after the first chapter of her life closed with divorce that Rachel was able to turn a new and exciting page – a page of love, warmth, and renewed hope.

When she was about 55, Rachel married Aaron Azaria, a soldier in the Jewish Brigade and a veteran of Haifa. Together they lived in the Ahuza neighborhood of Carmel City, where they established a warm home based on the values ​​of giving, joy of life, and deep friendship. "Aaron was a man with kind eyes and a radiant smile," Rachel says in a soft voice that brings a smile to the listener's face. "There was a peace about him that just enveloped me."

Their love blossomed with each passing day. They traveled the country's paths, breathed in the landscapes, and touched the hearts of people everywhere. The world didn't remain a dream either – the two crossed continents and borders, and were active members of the international volunteer organization "SERVES", where members from all over the globe dedicate their time to getting to know others. Rachel and Aaron's story is a reminder that it's never too late to love, to dream – and most importantly, to choose life again.

Visit and get to know the citizens of the world in their homes

"Servus" is an international volunteer organization that has been working since 1949 to promote kindness, peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding between people of different cultures through personal connections between travelers and hosts. The organization was founded in Denmark after World War II by American Bob Leitwaller and friends from Europe, initially under the name "Peace Builders," and in 1952 changed its name to "Servus" - an Esperanto word meaning "(we) serve." In 1972, Servus International was founded, with its registered office in Switzerland.

Today, the organization includes approximately 15,000 hosts in more than 100 countries. In Israel, Servus has been operating since 1966 as a registered non-profit organization called "Friends of Servus in Israel," with members from over 170 households spread across the country. The organization also holds meetings aimed at strengthening the connection between communities and people of different cultures in the country, and operates out of a commitment to full equality without distinction of gender, race, religion or worldview.

Community involvement and personal legacy

Beyond her professional and family activities, Rachel Azaria dedicated herself to volunteering in the community. In 2011, she received the Histadrut's Dearest Award for years of activity for society. In 2018, as mentioned, she was awarded the Dearest of Haifa decoration - a recognition of her civic, ethical and historical activities. Among her many moving contributions, her decision to donate Joseph Trumpeldor's famous binoculars to the Holocaust Museum next to the "Warm House" of the "Yad Ezer for a Friend" association in Haifa also stood out.

Living in the compound of the "Yad Ezer Haber" association

Rachel's husband, Aharon Azaria, passed away in 1999 after a battle with a serious illness. For years, she continued to live in her home in the Ahuza neighborhood, some of them with her partner, the late Haim Shalmon – but since 2017, she has lived in an apartment in the compound of the "Yad Ezer Haber" association, which was founded by Shimon Sabag.

Even today, she is an active participant in the organization's volunteer activities - and this is living proof that giving is not a phase in life but a way of life.

Rachel's Three Corners: The Beating Heart of a Small, Vibrant Home

In the apartment complex of the "Yad Ezer Haber" association, there is one small apartment that is a whole world. This is Rachel's kingdom - she manages to turn every corner of the house into a pearl of comfort, creativity and memory. Of all the spaces in the house, three corners are especially close to her heart - each of them tells a different story about her inner world.

The first is the small garden in front of the house – a magical garden of colors and scents, which blooms thanks to Rachel’s nurturing hands. Most of the plants – she insists on telling us – were planted from mature plants, some with a personal history just like hers. Even in hot hours, a pleasant breeze floats through the leaves and creates an irreplaceable peace. It is a corner for breathing, for lingering and for introspective stories.

The second corner belongs to a completely different world – the computer station in the inner room. Here, Rachel becomes a full-fledged technological lecturer: elaborate slides, presentations accompanied by songs and pictures, and all thanks to an almost surprising mastery of various media programs.

For her, PowerPoint is not a challenge, but a tool of expression. With professionalism and passion, she creates inspiring content that brings hearts closer together.

And the third? This is her beloved armchair – a kind of feminine, personal and refined version of the famous "Archie Bunker armchair". This is the 'landlady's armchair', from which Rachel overlooks the entire space of the apartment. From it she watches television, but no less than this – looks at the collection of her precious souvenirs scattered throughout the living room. Every object tells a story, every memory is wrapped in love.

Three corners, three worlds – and they all meet in one house, where Rachel lives in her unique way: connected to her roots, open to technology and surrounded by memories that do her heart good.

Memories Wrapped in Warmth: Rachel's Home as a Life Story Around the World

Within the walls of Rachel's home, every decorative item whispers a story, carrying with it the scent of a distant place, of an unforgettable moment. On every trip and excursion, in Israel or overseas, Rachel collected souvenirs – not just objects, but fragments of memory, traces of encounters, landscapes, emotions.

Dozens of items are scattered throughout her home, but they are all as one person to her: each of them has a warm place in her heart, accompanied by a sweet longing that never fades.

In the kitchen, on a special wall, her favorite plate of all hangs – not only because of its beauty, but because it was the work of her friend, Ahuva Sherman, a painter who knew how to embroider colors to evoke emotion. Sherman was known for her oil paintings, but she created this plate for Rachel, as if she had imprinted the seal of friendship on it forever.

Ahuva Sherman's works have also found their place in the heart of the public sphere. Her paintings hang in the Haifa Mayor's Office, the Bnei Zion Medical Center, and the Fleiman Hospital – each one tells a story of color, of movement, of life. Her oil painting "The Ship's Dock" takes pride of place in the Greek Embassy in Israel, while a huge ten-meter-long tapestry, titled "From Dan to Eilat," adorns the Rabin Building in the Government Building. Meanwhile, the painting "The Hanger" is displayed in the Warrior's House, wrapped in the meaning of personal and collective strength. The highlight, perhaps, is an artistic wall she created from terra cotta clay, which extends along the facade of a house on Abba Khushi Boulevard – a quiet monument to talent, perseverance, and a creative soul.

But there are also small, hidden items that are no less precious to Rachel. Two small squirrels, a gift from her husband, Aharon Azaria, adorn her inner room.

Rachel loves squirrels – their lightness, their playfulness, and the peace they represent. They are always there in her thoughts, as if guarding her heart.

Among all the countless souvenirs, there are three humble but particularly touching figures. They are made from corn husks and were bought in Brazil, on the occasion of a trip to celebrate the 70th birthday of an aunt, a local woman who was sitting on the street with her little daughter who has cerebral palsy.

This moment – ​​simple, painful, human – is burned into Rachel as a testament to the delicacy and sometimes cruelty of the wheel of fortune. On one side – a rainbow mother and a life of struggle, on the other – a pair of travelers celebrating life. These three dolls are a reminder: between journeys, between memories, life is a quiet poetry of pain and beauty mixed together. Thus Rachel's home becomes a kind of personal museum, an internal and tangible journey in which every decorative detail tells a different chapter in her life story.

Two Books and a Thousand Emotions: From Rachel's Bookshelf

In a quiet corner of Rachel's apartment, among the bookshelves that have known countless hours of contemplation, reflection, and solitude, only two books stand out to her.

Two that miraculously reflected the depths of her soul more than any other book – and became a kind of intimate mirror of her inner world. The choice of them is not accidental: these are books that testify to her, to her depth, to her sensitivity towards others and to her longing to understand, to have compassion, to believe in humanity – even when people are at their lowest ebb.

"All Life Ahead" – Compassion in the Heart of Neglect

The first of the two, "All Life Ahead" by Emile Azhar, is a moving human document. It is a novel, published in 1975, that tells the story of those whom society chooses to hide - the strangers, the poor, the prostitutes, the sick, the abandoned children.

In those six peeling floors of a building in Paris, in the forgotten Belleville district, a rejected community, all too familiar, all too painful, is teeming. It is there, in the heart of urban ugliness and social despair, that moments of kindness are born: friendship, generosity, a love that knows no ethnic or religious boundaries.

Rachel found among Ajar's lines those cracks in the stone from which light penetrates – the pain she knows from the experience and knowledge she has acquired in her life and the human ability to transcend it.

"The Scroll of San Michele" – Magic and Sobriety on Human Distress

The second book that has become especially dear to her is "The Scroll of Saint Michael" by Axel Munthe. It is a memoir, or rather a personal legend, written in English in 1929 but which transcends generations and borders.

This is his story about a doctor, a philosopher, a dreamer – a man whose life ranged from wealthy mansions in Europe to the towering cliffs of Capri, between innovative psychological treatments and a fierce love for animals and birds.

Monat, who lives in a villa he built himself – "San Michele", unfolds in his book moments of truth mixed with fantasy, pain mixed with beauty and a moving humanistic worldview. Although he refrains from talking about his family, he does not skimp on details when expressing his views on life, on suffering and on the right to say goodbye to them with dignity.

One soul, two worlds, the same understanding heart

The choice of such seemingly different books – this one reveals the wounds of the social margins and the other wanders between nature, memories, and visions – is no coincidence.

Rachel, who walked her life between compassion and reality, between a sense of mission and convergence, found a common thread in them: faith in man, for who he is. These weren't just temporary bestsellers or online recommendations – these are the books that stay with her, whispering something important to her even when she turns off the light.

…and in many ways – they also tell about her.

Rachel Azaria's story is the story of this country – a country that rose from destruction, was built with labor and faith, and exists thanks to women and people who live in it not only for themselves.

She was not a television star, did not stand on the political stage, and did not appear in the headlines – but she has a place at the heart of local history, in the memory of the city of Haifa, and in the bosom of the family she built with great effort.