Ethiopian Youth in Gedera and Ramla

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Everyday, Ethiopian students in Gedera get out of class in the early afternoon, and face the task of occupying themselves. At a loss for productive programming, some have chosen the less respectable road. However, thanks to ENP, there's the מרכז נוער, Youth Center, that opens at 4pm, and offers a spacious gaming room with a pool table and lounge chairs, a computer room where children can play computer games and browse, as well as athletic programs. The Center gets 100-130 students each day. I had conversations with a ninth grader and a twelfth grader, who described the social situation in the area, and the success of the Youth Center in keeping children off the streets. Also, twice a week Scholastic Assistance classed are offered to help students with homework. They also discussed a youth leadership program where some of the children can develop programming ideas and then apply for funding and make their dreams realities.

The ENP Field Coordinator was very helpful in introducing me to the students and helping me get a feel for the programming provided, as well as the impact it's had on the community. After Gedera, we traveled to the ENP Student Center in Ramla. There were only a few students there when I arrived, and they said that the larger crowds come a little later in the evening. Nevertheless, they also expressed the sense of belonging they had to the place, since it was a wonderful and safe location where they could relax and enjoy time with friends.


 The Ethiopian-Israeli Community of Gedera is supported by the UJA-Federation of New York.

The Ethiopian-Israeli Community of Ramla is supported by the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County.

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