Chabad Rechavia Opens ‘IDF Lounge’ for Soldiers and Their Families

In the heart of Rechavia, a unique new center called the “IDF Lounge” has opened its doors, providing emotional, logistical, and social support for the families of IDF soldiers and reservists, under the auspices of Chabad of Rechavia and shliach Rabbi Yisrael Goldberg.

By Anash.org staff

In the heart of Rechavia, a unique new center called the “IDF Lounge” has opened its doors, providing emotional, logistical, and social support for the families of IDF soldiers. At the dedication event, the guests of honor included MK Dvora Biton and MK Michal Woldiger. Behind the initiative is Shliach Rabbi Yisrael Goldberg, who explained: “We are here to bring light to families who give everything to defend Eretz Yisroel.”

The festive and emotional evening marked the official launch of Mafal – the Hebrew acronym for Merkaz Pinuk Lechayalim, or “Soldier Pampering Center” – in the Rechavia neighborhood of Yerushalayim. As Rabbi Goldberg, the Rebbe’s Shliach to Rechavia, put it, “The center is intended as an island of stability and comfort for the wives, children, and parents of reservists – particularly during this time when hundreds of thousands of soldiers have been stationed far from home for many long months of fighting in the south and north.”

This new center is the product of an ongoing relationship between Rabbi Goldberg and a large team of dedicated volunteers with over 150 young families, primarily those of reservists. “This initiative came about through listening closely to their needs,” explained Rabbi Goldberg, a longtime community rav in Rechavia. “They needed a place where they could receive emotional support, practical assistance, and – just as important – a warm, communal atmosphere. It’s time there was a permanent solution in central Yerushalayim. There’s no need to travel all the way to Tel Aviv to find a listening ear or a warm hug.”

Among the attendees were two Members of Knesset, Dr. Dvora Biton, who spoke emotionally about a recent visit to the Rebbe’s Ohel in New York and its powerful impact on her, and Michal Woldiger, who has been accompanying efforts to support reservist families in recent months. Also present was Miriam Sela, a Jerusalem City Council member representing the “Hitorerut” party, who holds the community volunteerism, economic development, and urban renewal portfolios.

A surprise guest was Dr. Aharon Danzinger, a senior physician at Hadassah Ein Kerem and a resident of Rechavia. Rabbi Goldberg shared a special memory of a unique encounter Dr. Danzinger had with the Rebbe as part of a delegation of disabled IDF veterans. “I often think back to that encounter,” said Dr. Danzinger, “and for me, the center inaugurated by the Rebbe’s Shliach is a continuation of that powerful moment of empathy and connection with soldiers.”

One reservist arrived straight from the Gaza front to attend the event. “I just wanted to say thank you,” he told the audience, visibly moved. One of the soldiers’ wives also came with her husband and children, saying they wanted to salute “this amazing initiative.”

The evening featured activities for children, an interactive play area, dancing, and small gift packages – a card offering seforim with the center’s logo was presented to each family.

What does the IDF Lounge actually offer? Emotional therapy, physical wellness sessions, logistical assistance, meals, support groups, and most importantly – a stable routine and a listening ear for the soldiers’ wives and children. “The goal,” said Rabbi Goldberg, “is not just to survive – but to live again. And after what these families have been through, that’s no small thing.”

Toward the end of the evening, Rabbi Goldberg announced the establishment of a dedicated fund for reservist families, which will provide targeted financial assistance during this challenging time. “Many reservists are facing serious financial struggles,” he said, “and we’re here not only to offer comfort – but also real, practical help.”

A quick glance around the room told the whole story: dozens of volunteers, local residents – both religious and secular – coming together for the sake of the soldiers. As one participant summed it up: “This place isn’t just about pampering. It’s a breath of life. It reminds us we’re not alone.”