Bringing the Team Back to Their Second Family

Since the tragic events of October 7th, the young athletes of Hapoel Eshkol—14- and 15-year-old boys from Israel’s southern Gaza envelope have endured nearly two years of war. Their lives are still far from normal, their communities still on edge, and their sense of safety still deeply shaken. the young athletes of Hapoel Eshkol -14- and 15-year-old boys from Israel’s southern Gaza envelope—lost not only their homes, but also their rhythm, community, and sense of safety.

In December 2024, they were welcomed to Los Angeles by Sinai Temple and generous host families through Project 24. For one unforgettable week, these teens found comfort, healing, and joy through basketball, community, and a deep connection with American Jewish families who opened their hearts and homes.

Now, we’re bringing them back.

Why Now?

This summer, the team will return to Los Angeles not just to compete, but to reconnect.

They’ll stay once again with their host families, rebuild the bonds formed in December, and get a much-needed break from the daily pressures of living near the Gaza border. They’ll play basketball, spend Shabbat in community, and be reminded that they are not alone.

This is a reminder that the Jewish people stand together. That even across oceans, we show up for each other.

All donations are tax-deductible.

The cost to bring the team and their coaches back to LA is significant—flights, accommodations, meals, transportation, programming, and logistics. Each donation helps cover these costs and makes this journey possible.

Project 24

Thank you for being part of their journey,

Project 24