Project Spotlight: Summer Activities for Olim Children 

IFCJ Canada  |  July 30, 2026

Many children who make aliyah (immigration to Israel) tell our Fellowship family that adjusting to life in a new country can be difficult. They have to learn Hebrew, make new friends, and adapt to a different culture, to name just a few of the challenges.  

Every summer, camps and programs across Israel help children who have made aliyah within the past three years adjust to life in their new home. This year, the camps are serving children ages 6 through 16 from the former Soviet Union, France, and Latin America. 

These summer camps bring the children together five days a week for activities that help them learn Hebrew through songs, dance, and games while building friendships with other olim (immigrants). Nine-year-old Misha, who made aliyah three years ago, said: 

“I really like coming here. I have friends from my class who come here, and I’ve also met some new friends. I really want to improve my Hebrew and get to know the history of Israel better. I really hope that next year I’ll also participate in the activities. Many thanks to The Fellowship’s donors who make it possible for us to come here. I really want to improve my Hebrew, and I can’t wait to go back to school and start studying. My favourite subject is sports.” 

Yulia, who arrived in Israel with her two children just 22 days ago, says the camp is already working wonders for her six-year-old daughter. Even as the family continues searching for an apartment, both her six-year-old and eleven-year-old are learning Hebrew, making friends, and spending time outdoors. They are both excited to begin school on September 1. 

She says: 

“I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to The Fellowship’s donors who make this happen. The children are learning Hebrew, getting to know the culture, and making new friends. We don’t have family in Israel yet and we don’t have friends. This is a great place to meet friends. Thank you for making this happen.” 

For families making aliyah, support during those first months can make all the difference. As children learn a new language, make friends, and adjust to life in Israel, opportunities like these help them feel at home and build confidence for the future. 

To learn more about the individuals and families IFCJ Canada supports through aliyah, visit our Making Aliyah page. 

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him” (Psalm 127:3).