Bringing Smiles from Above Rappelling Israeli Soldiers Celebrate Purim with Disabled Children

For Liran Menashe, what started as a routine job six years ago has grown into a heartwarming Purim tradition for Israeli children with severe physical and cognitive disabilities.

“It all began when we were working on exterior sealing and waterproofing at Aleh’s facility in Bnei Brak. As we rappelled down the building, the children inside were mesmerized, watching us with excitement and curiosity,” said Menashe, an army reservist.

At the end of the workday, Aleh’s director, Hani Klein, approached Menashe with a unique idea turning the rappelling into a costume-themed Purim celebration. “We immediately said yes. We felt it was a great privilege to bring them joy,” Menashe recalled.

Since that first year, the event has grown into an annual tradition, with more volunteers joining each time.

This year, amid the backdrop of war, the gathering carried an even deeper significance. In honor of Israel’s resilience, Klein proposed the theme of “Heroic Soldiers.” Reservists from various combat units many recently returned from the frontlines in Gaza and Lebanon answered the call. But this time, their mission was not battle, but joy.

The excitement at Aleh was palpable as the soldiers, secured with harnesses and ropes, rappelled down the building, each carrying Purim gift packages, or mishloach manot. As they landed, the children erupted in cheers, running toward their heroes with wide smiles and outstretched arms.

Before the festivities began, a solemn tribute was held. Orange balloons were released into the sky in memory of Shiri Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, who were murdered in Hamas captivity, as well as all those who lost their lives in the October 7 massacre.

Aleh, a leading organization providing therapies, specialized education, and a nurturing environment for children and young adults with complex disabilities, serves as a beacon of hope for families across Israel.

“These children are warriors in their own right, facing daily challenges with incredible courage,” said Yehuda Marmorstein, founder and CEO of Aleh. “To see IDF soldiers, who have fought on the battlefield, come here and embrace our children with such warmth and joy it is truly a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Jewish people.”

As a gesture of gratitude, Aleh presented the reservists with certificates of appreciation inscribed with the words: “For descending without limits, and spreading joy without boundaries.”

“The smiles on the children’s faces fill our hearts every year,” Menashe said.

Purim, which commemorates the Jewish people’s survival from a plot to destroy them in ancient Persia, is celebrated with feasting, costumes, and acts of kindness. In the spirit of the holiday, these Israeli soldiers brought more than just mishloach manot they brought hope, laughter, and a reminder that even in difficult times, joy prevails.

Israel’s strength lies in its people on the battlefield, in its communities, and in the hearts of its children. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates to spread the Purim spirit and celebrate the unwavering bond between Israel’s defenders and its future generations.