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Over a thousand people gathered last night as lone soldiers lit a huge menorah at Mamilla Mall in Jerusalem. Chayal el Chayal – a home away from home for lone in Jerusalem arranged for over 50 lone soldiers to attend. Following the lighting, the soldiers enjoyed spirited dancing, a barbecue on a Mamilla Rooftop and special Chanukah gifts.

Chayal el Chayal is the only lone soldier center in Jerusalem which provides sleeping accommodations and is designed to serve lone soldiers’ every need. Besides hosting them for Shabbat and holidays, their doors are open for them around the clock. The staff at Chayal el Chayal build strong, personal bonds with each soldier, filling in for the families they left behind.

According to the Israel Consul General in Los Angeles there are currently about 2,000 Anglo men and women, lone soldiers, serving in the Israeli army and Chayal el Chayal is already in touch with almost half of them. Chayal el Chayal advises them and advocates on their behalf, smoothing their transition to army life and their eventual return to civilian life. There is a mentoring program between past soldiers and new recruits to learn the ropes and they enjoy care packages throughout the year.

Chayal el Chayal has scheduled events for all 8 days of Chanukah. Click here for more information.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)