As Jews worldwide mark Yom Hashoah, volunteers across Israel continue their sacred mission of caring for Holocaust survivors.

In Beit Shemesh, a weekly ritual unfolds between United Hatzalah volunteer Yisrael Kalman and 90-year-old Holocaust survivor Chaim Margolis. Despite experiencing unimaginable trauma after being forced into a Nazi concentration camp in Romania at just eight years old, Chaim found strength. During those dark years, he met the woman who would become his wife. Together, they built a family and eventually made Aliyah.

For Chaim, Kalman’s visits represent more than medical checkups. Their relationship exemplifies the mission of Ten Kavod, which means “Care with Dignity” in Hebrew. The program was launched by United Hatzalah in 2012 after volunteer medics reported concerning cases of elder neglect throughout Israel.

Hatzalah’s initiative takes a comprehensive approach to elder care. Volunteers undergo extensive 44-hour training courses that prepare them to monitor vital signs, recognize symptoms of dementia, identify potential injuries, and spot signs of poor nutrition.

Beyond medical monitoring, the program addresses the profound loneliness many elderly survivors experience. For volunteers like Kalman, the relationship goes both ways. Many report that their weekly visits with survivors have become deeply meaningful parts of their lives, offering perspective and connection to history through firsthand accounts.

As Israel’s Holocaust survivor population ages, initiatives like Ten Kavod become increasingly vital. The program offers all services at no cost to participants, removing financial barriers to receiving consistent care.

Am Yisrael Chai!