President of Israel Isaac Herzog visited this week the 'Perach Israel' Community Rehabilitation Village in Rosh Ha'ayin, home to approximately 230 adults with disabilities. The village is part of 'Perach Israel', Israel's largest education, care, and rehabilitation network, serving approximately 15,000 children and adults with disabilities in more than 30 cities and communities across the country.
The President was welcomed by 'Perach Israel' CEO Rabbi Moshe Stein, Director of Professional Services Prof. Ze'ev Rotstein, Deputy CEO Rabbi Michael Dor, Village Director Yafit Bergig, Deputy Director General of Welfare and Social Affairs Ministry Moshe Lavon, representatives of the Disabilities Administration Ministry and Central District, and Rosh Ha'ayin Mayor Raz Sagi.
The tour included the residential areas, employment centers, and therapeutic and recreational facilities. The President met with residents, learned about their daily lives at the village, and became acquainted with the activities that strengthen their independence while providing responsibility, purpose, and a sense of capability.
The leadership of 'Perach Israel' presented to the President the comprehensive transformation the village has undergone in recent years through significant investment, including extensive renovation of its facilities, expansion of nursing services, recruitment of hundreds of staff members, the establishment of employment centers, and the integration of therapeutic, recreational, and enrichment programs into the residents' daily lives. They also highlighted the close cooperation they receive from the Welfare Ministry and the support of the Ministry's senior leadership and professional teams.
'Perach Israel' CEO Rabbi Moshe Stein explained that at the heart of this transformation is a professional model combining emotional and behavioral therapy, advanced therapeutic interventions, meaningful employment, community life, and close psychiatric supervision. The emphasis on individualized care and an active daily routine has resulted in a significant reduction in the use of psychiatric medications. Among some residents, medication dosages have been reduced by up to 70%, in accordance with their medical condition and under the full supervision of the professional staff.
The visit also focused on the comprehensive support the village provides throughout the year. Residents remain at the village during weekends and holidays, where they benefit from a permanent home, social life, and warm personal support. For some residents, who have no family home or are unable to return to one, the village is the only safe and permanent home available to them.
Toward the conclusion of the visit, the President received an overview of the nationwide activities of 'Perach Israel', Israel's largest education, care, and rehabilitation network, providing services to approximately 15,000 children and adults with disabilities through dozens of programs operating in more than 30 cities and communities across the country.
President Isaac Herzog said:
"I was delighted to visit the remarkable 'Perach Israel' center in Rosh Ha'ayin this week. This precious village, which was once in a state of complete disrepair, has been transformed into something truly exceptional.
I was deeply moved to see the love shown to the residents and the immense respect you extend to every individual, regardless of where they come from or their background. Everyone here is a creation of God, made in His image, and you honor that principle in a beautiful and dignified way.
Thank you for the meaningful work you are doing here. I wish all the people of Israel good news, and to you as well - continue to succeed in your sacred mission."
Rabbi Moshe Stein, CEO of 'Perach Israel', said:
"Perach Village is a home that provides every resident with dignity, security, purpose, and a sense of belonging. The President met talented people who work, create, and thrive with the support of a professional framework that enables them to grow, develop, and lead fulfilling lives. 'Perach Israel' is a model of unity that brings together all parts of the people of Israel, a place where there are no differences and every person is accepted as they are."
Moshe Lavon, Deputy Director General of the Welfare and Social Affairs Ministry, said:
"I would like to thank the President of Israel for his visit to 'Perach' and for the commitment he continues to demonstrate toward advancing the rights and well-being of people with disabilities in Israel. This visit sends an important message of dignity, inclusion, and equality. In recent years, the State of Israel has taken a clear path toward promoting independent living, full participation in the community, and services tailored to the needs and wishes of every individual. The Welfare Ministry will continue to lead this effort in cooperation with all partners, based on the belief that every person deserves equal opportunity and full participation in society and community."
Raz Sagi, Mayor of Rosh Ha'ayin, said:
"Perach Village may be located on the northwestern edge of Rosh Ha'ayin, but it is at the very heart of our community. We are working together to ensure that the village's walls become transparent - embracing and connecting rather than separating. During the recent war, we hosted half of the village's residents at a school in our city, and we consider it a great privilege."