Eli Cohen proudly fixed the mezuzah to the front door of the former Hanna Schwalbe care home in Leeside Crescent, Golders Green, which is now seven flats for people with learning disabilities, following a £500k renovation.
The mezuzah was paid for by Eli’s family in memory of his father who died eight years ago. His mother, Estelle said: “To see Eli moving into this brand new supported living home is a miracle. He has come a long way and has come out of his shell. Since living in The Drive (his previous Kisharon supported living home), Eli has become independent and he enjoys being part of the community. We are full of praise and gratitude – and that is why Kisharon is so special to us.”
It was a poignant moment for parents Gaby and Harold Goldblatt who watched their son Moishe – Hanna Schwalbe’s grandson – unpack his possessions.
Gaby said: “We bought this home in memory of my mother, Hanna Schwalbe, who came from an illustrious rabbinical family in New York. She was a wonderful person, who did a lot of good things in her community – and she adored Moishe – so it is fitting that he should be living here again. Knowing that he will be looked after in a Jewish environment that is nurturing and caring – even when we are no longer here – it means so much to us.”
Richard Franklin, Kisharon’s Fundraising and Communications Director, said: “With support from generous donors, we have been able to redevelop this prime residential property, given to us some years ago by the Goldblatt family. It is so moving to see how they have enabled Kisharon to provide supported living services of an exceptional standard in the heart of our community.”
Each new resident selected the colour scheme for their home and were supported to go shopping for household items.
Their tenancy agreements were prepared in Easy Read so they could be understood without difficulty.
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