A Chai Lifeline Canada program that provides emotional and social support to children and teens when a parent is ill or deceased has given 15 children in that devastating situation three days of fun, friendship, and respite at Disney World.

The young travelers are all participants in Penina’s Helping Hand, a year-round program for children and teens forced to cope with the illness or untimely death of a parent.

“Our goal is to allow these kids, who live with so much stress, an extended period of time where they can have fun, while at the same time form mentoring relationships with young adults who can provide support throughout the year,” said Rabbi Mordechai Rothman, Chai Lifeline Canada’s director.

The group arrived on Tuesday, and immediately headed to the Disney complex. Over three days they toured Hollywood Studios, the Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios.

“Even on the first day, the kids and counselors had already become close. I could see that the kids were gravitating towards the counselors. They need and want that mentorship and the friendship of “big siblings” who can offer extra guidance, compassion, and love as they navigate through the difficulties of their lives.” Rabbi Rothman added that he hopes the trip will be an annual event for children impacted by the illness or loss of a parent.

“Taking care of children affected by the illness of a parent has become an increasingly important part of Chai Lifeline’s mission,” added Rabbi Simcha Scholar, executive vice president of the international organization. “Programs like Penina’s Helping Hand, i-Shine after-school programs, and MY Kids provide emotional support, recreation, and resources to children and teens living in these precarious situations.”

Penina’s Helping Hand, a program of Chai Lifeline Canada, was established in tribute to Penina Rubinoff, a’h, by her son, Jeremy. Mrs. Rubinoff, the mother of four children, dedicated her life to her family, tzedaka, and chesed. The program helps families cope with the devastation that accompanies the diagnosis and treatment of a parent’s illness or the untimely death of a young parent.

Chai Lifeline Canada is the Canadian affiliate of Chai Lifeline, the international children’s health support network. This year Chai Lifeline will touch more than 4,300 lives impacted by serious illnesses or untimely loss around the world.

(YWN Desk – NYC)