A Lifeline Of Compassion & Strength: Ensuring Every Jew Confronting Illness Or Crisis Is Embraced with Unwavering Support

Pictured: “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.”

Feb 18, 2025

Chai Lifeline is an international support network, providing social, emotional, and practical assistance to children, families, and communities impacted by medical crises and trauma through a variety of year-round programs and services.

Their vision is to ensure every Jew confronting illness or crisis is embraced with compassion, strength, and unwavering support.

Journey of Resilience

This year’s trip will feature the introduction of the Rosenberg Jerusalem Experience and holds special significance, as it was postponed in 2024 due to the outbreak of war following the tragic events of October 7th. In addition to visiting Israel’s iconic landmarks such as the Kotel, Masada, and the Dead Sea, participants will engage in meaningful encounters, including meeting wounded IDF soldiers at Sheba Medical Center, paying tribute to the victims of October 7th at the Nova Music Festival site, and hosting a barbecue for soldiers. They will also visit “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv to show support for families of hostages.

“This trip is so much more than a journey to Israel; it is a celebration of resilience and hope,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “The teens on this trip have faced unimaginable challenges, and through this program, we are honored to provide them with a life-changing experience that brings joy, confidence, and connection to their heritage. We are deeply grateful to the Hartman and Rosenberg families for their generosity in making this program possible.”

Accompanied by wheelchairs, walkers, and respirators, these teens and their parents will experience Israel’s rich culture and spirituality. The trip alternates annually between teenagers who have completed cancer treatment and those living with chronic illnesses or disabilities, ensuring each group receives the specialized support they need.

Joining the group this year is Rabbi Shay Schachter, Camp Simcha Rabbi and a prominent advocate for hostage families, who will provide spiritual guidance and support throughout the trip.

“For many of these teens, a trip to Israel would otherwise be impossible,” said Rabbi Scholar. “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.”

Yehudah Zellermaier Appointed As Director

Chai Lifeline, is pleased to announce the appointment of Yehudah Zellermaier, LCSW, as the new Director of its Greater New York region. Zellermaier brings over 15 years of experience in social services and nonprofit leadership to the organization.

Prior to joining Chai Lifeline, Zellermaier served as Managing Director of the Brooklyn Hub at the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, where he significantly expanded programs and services, overseeing the buildout and operations of the new social services center in Boro Park. His extensive experience also includes roles as Executive Director of the Boro Park Chesed Center and Director of Operations at the Met Council, where he managed multiple large programs serving thousands annually.

“We are thrilled to welcome Yehudah to the Chai Lifeline family,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “His proven leadership and dedication to community service align perfectly with our mission to support children and families facing serious illness. We look forward to the positive impact he will have in the New York region.”

In his new role, Zellermaier, who holds a Master of Social Work from New York University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will lead a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers to enhance Chai Lifeline’s comprehensive support programs, including case management, crisis intervention, hospital services, meal delivery, transportation, i-Shine after school programming, and a range of services for children and families confronting serious illnesses.

“I am honored to join Chai Lifeline and contribute to its vital mission,” said Zellermaier. “I look forward to working with the team to provide compassionate support to families in our community during their most challenging times.”

Chai Lifeline is an international support network providing emotional, social, and practical assistance to children and families impacted by illness and crisis.

For more information, visit: www.chailifeline.org.