On Tuesday, March 10, the festive Purim holiday will usher in a new era for the 5,000 children of Sderot and neighboring communities. A new $5-million recreational facility, wholly funded by Jewish National Fund-U.S. (www.jnf.org), will be formally opened in the Israeli town which has taken hits from thousands of Gaza-launched missiles for the past eight years.
 
A special dedication attended by Minister of Negev & Galilee Development Yaakov Edri, Sderot Mayor David Buskila, JNF-U.S. Chairman of the Board Ronald Lauder, President Stanley Chesley, CEO Russell Robinson and many area children and their parents will take place on Tuesday, March 10th.
 
The unique facility, nearly 2,000sq.m. (21,000 sq.ft) in size, was created in a former textile factory. It can accommodate up to 500 people at a time and will realize the vision of the JNF Board of Directors in the USA.
 
“During waves of rocket attacks, there is nowhere for kids to go, except to school and then immediately back home,” said Chesley. “During today’s uneasy quiet when many IDF analysts believe that Hamas in the Gaza Strip are actively rearming, JNF has answered the call in its own way by completing this vitally needed project for the children of Sderot.”
 
The indoor site is divided into two areas – part intended for infants and toddlers with another section designed for children in elementary and high school. It will also be used by seniors during the morning hours. The site will boast a media and computer center (that doubles as a disco in the evening), climbing wall, mock “shopping mall” for dolls, teddy bears and action figures, birthday party area and a cafeteria as well an enclosed mini-soccer field.  Psychologists will be on-site for intervention with children and families in need of their services. A medical station will also be available.
 
The secure play structure exceeds Israel Defense Forces building standards and regulations, and is constructed with 100% Israeli materials. Since it would be unfeasible to protect the entire building against incoming rocket attacks with a heavy concrete roof, the structure is designed with multiple reinforced shelters that also serve as functional interior areas. The compartmentalized shelters, made up of 300 tons of iron, provide instant protection when alarms alerting an imminent attack give a 15-second advance warning.  
 
An additional shelter outside the site for children and their families waiting to enter has also been built. Supporting plans call for a free hourly shuttle bus that will transport families to and from the secure play center.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)