Mama-Therese House Operated by Yotam's Wayside Inn

IntroductionMama-Therese House is a unique project of the Gvanim Association, operated by Yotam's Wayside Inn, to provide a warm and supportive space for lone soldiers, IDF units, and individuals coping with post-trauma. Located in Atlit, on the Carmel coast, the house will offer hospitality, resilience workshops, and a sense of home for those who dedicate their lives to the safety and well-being of Israel. About the Mama-Therese HouseThe Mama-Therese House is a magical home built by Therese, a French immigrant, and her husband Matti Hinson, a seaman and artist. Today, at the age of 102, Therese has generously entrusted her house in Atlit to the Gvanim Association and Yotam's Wayside Inn, to be used as a haven for IDF soldiers and individuals coping with trauma. The house will host up to 20 lone soldiers each weekend, offering them comfortable accommodation, kosher meals, and a supportive atmosphere. Volunteers from Yotam's Wayside Inn will provide hospitality, meals, and activities. Soldiers will also enjoy free access to electric bicycles for exploring Atlit, the Carmel Coast, and the nearby Neve Yam beach. During the week, Mama-Therese House will serve military units that will participate in resilience workshops, aimed at them process experiences and strengthen their mental health. Yotam's Wayside Inn Founded in 2013 in memory of Yotam Melamed, Yotam's Wayside Inn is a vibrant center for volunteering and mutual support in Hof HaCarmel. It operates a wide range of programs engaging youth, adults, and individuals with special needs in creative, social, and community-based activities. These include music and art programs, food distribution, tutoring, surfing activities, a social café, and youth advancement initiatives. In 2022, Yotam's Wayside Inn became part of the Gvanim Association, while retaining its unique character and commitment to community empowerment. Together, Yotam's Wayside Inn and Gvanim amplify their impact by creating inclusive spaces for people of all ages and abilities. The Gvanim AssociationThe Gvanim Association, founded in 1994 in Sderot, is Israel’s leading developer of transformative social programs that empower individuals with disabilities and vulnerable populations. With operations in 38 communities across Israel, Gvanim provides opportunities in education, employment, social enterprise, housing, and community life. For over three decades, Gvanim has built resilience in communities, especially in Israel’s south, while fostering partnerships with government ministries, municipalities, families, and businesses. Its holistic approach places individuals at the center, empowering them to take active roles in shaping their lives and contributing to society. ConclusionMama-Therese House represents the spirit of generosity, resilience, and community. Through the project of Gvanim operated by Yotam's Wayside Inn, it will provide not only a home for lone soldiers and military units, but also a model of social solidarity and healing. This initiative will continue the legacy of Therese and Yotam, ensuring a brighter and stronger future for Israel’s communities.