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Yeladim - Fair Chance for Children Parents as Partners Program

Rebuilding Connection. Strengthening Identity

“The first time I called his mother, she started crying. Not because something had happened – but because someone finally spoke to her as a mother.”
Eitan, residential coordinator

Children and teens in residential care don’t always come from stable or emotionally available homes.

But even when a parent is not the primary caregiver – and even when the relationship is complicated or distant – that parent is still their parent.

And that connection, even when fragile, remains one of the most powerful influences on a child’s identity, sense of belonging, and ability to grow.

Parents as Partners is a national initiative led by Yeladim, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Welfare, JDC-Ashalim, and the National Insurance Institute foundations.

Its purpose is clear: to strengthen the connection between children and their parents, support parents in their role, and build as much stability as possible within complex family realities.

Why It Matters?

Research and experience show that when a parent is present and involved, even from a distance, and is treated as a partner in their child’s life, the child benefits.
They gain belonging.
They gain a stronger sense of identity.
And they gain a real chance of returning home one day with greater stability and trust.

Our Core Principles

• A child belongs to their family – even if they do not live at home.
Family identity is not a barrier. It is a foundation.

• An involved parent – even from afar – provides emotional stability.
  A consistent phone call. A holiday visit. A simple message. These moments matter.

• Supporting parents ultimately supports children.
  Children feel the difference when their parent is confident, supported, and included.

“I’m not a perfect mother. Far from it. But for the first time, someone spoke to me as a mother – not as someone to blame. It changed everything.”
M., mother of a 16-year-old

How the Program Works?

Parents as Partners operates through a Train-the-Trainer model, working closely with residential homes and their surrounding communities.

The program includes:

• Professional training for residential staff

• Clear, structured working procedures

• Family-focused practices integrated into daily residential life

• Parent-child events, shared holidays, ceremonies, and meaningful milestones

• Support during transitions – home visits, holiday returns, and full reunification when possible

Today, the program is implemented across all welfare residential facilities in Israel as part of national out-of-home care policy.

  • What Children Gain?

    • A stronger sense of identity and belonging
    • Greater emotional security
    • Continuity between home and residential life
    • Better preparation for returning home or integrating into the community
    • The reassurance that they do not have to choose between their residential home and their family

  • What Parents Gain?

    • Practical parenting tools
    • Professional support that respects rather than judges
    • A renewed sense of purpose and value in their child’s life
    • A bridge to rebuild relationships that may have been strained for years

  • What Staff Gain?

    • Clear and constructive ways to work with parents
    • Reduced tension between home and residential care
    • A shared professional language and structured framework
    • Support in navigating complex family situations

Want to Help Children Rebuild Family Connections?

Your support enables us to work with more families, run additional parent groups, and restore children’s sense of belonging and emotional security.

Donate Now

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