Minister of Senior Citizens Affairs (Likud) Gila Gamliel visited Hebron and Kiryat Arba this week, addressing how it is very difficult for senior citizens to visit the Ma’aras HaMachpelah. Gamliel met with Council Head Malachi Levinger, explaining to him that she is moving ahead with projects to benefit senior citizens. Leading the list she explained is a program to subsidize visits to areas around Israel for senior citizens.

Marking the first yahrzeit of IDF Major Binayahu Sarel HY”D, a community resident, visiting the family home to explain her program to establish a leadership training center for youths to inculcate them with the late major’s values and love for Eretz Yisrael.

Gamliel completed her visit to the area in the Ma’aras HaMachpelah, telling the media “There is no more natural connection between our historical ancestors thanks to whom we are here today. Visits to the Machpelah strengthen our heritage and the connection of people to holy sites of Judaism and secures their hold forever”.

During the visit Michal Sarel explained the difficulties associated with the bereavement that accompanied her during the past year. “When I look back to the 27 years I can say that Binayahu accomplished a great deal. I personally do not feel that he missed out but it hurts a great deal and we as a family miss our Binayahu, our beloved son who we had and enjoyed his personality for years”.

Levinger called on the minister to put Hebron and Kiryat Arba on the map like the Negev and the Galil regarding visits by senior citizens.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)