(haipo) – In recent days, in the midst of a complex security period, an extraordinary volunteer activity took place at Rambam Hospital that provided moments of joy, strength and hope to hundreds of children. The Olympic athlete Ilana Kartish, Chairwoman of the Unite Haifa Association, arrived with two coaches from the club for a special activity day at the hospital's daycare, a place designated for the children of the employees, where sometimes between 200 and 300 children stay every day.
Ilana Kartish and Unite Haifa artists at the Rambam childcare center ► Watch
"We wanted to give them a moment of light"
Kartish opened the day with an inspiring lecture entitled "Conquering the Impossible," in which she shared with the children her personal journey, the challenges she experienced, and the power of sports to strengthen, empower, and create self-belief. This was followed by a variety of sports activities: basic fitness exercises, movement games, and learning the basics of judo, all on a fully volunteer basis.
According to her, the most moving moments were the children's reactions: "The smiles, the energy, and the feeling that they were gaining strength, it was worth it all. We felt that through sports we were able to give them a moment of joy in a difficult reality."
Recognition for the teams: "They do amazing work for the children"
Kartish wanted to thank the principal, Tali Shmila, and the entire community system team who initiated the activity, as well as the community sports coordinators: "They give of themselves every day in babysitting and do an amazing job for the children. They deserve all the respect."
Shortage of volunteers: "Every hour can change a child's day"
Due to the security situation, the number of children in daycare is particularly high, and sometimes there is a lack of volunteers and activities that could make things easier for them and the staff.
Kartish calls and asks to encourage everyone who can to join and volunteer: "In such a complex time, anyone who can donate an hour of their time can make a huge difference."
Sports, community, and hope — even in times of war
The activity at Rambam is part of the commitment of the Unite Haifa association to promoting sports, community resilience and mutual support.
Even in times of uncertainty, the initiative of Kartish and her team reminds us of how powerful a small act can be, especially for children who need a moment to breathe, play, and smile.