An evening of music, inspiration and celebration brought some 3,000 children, family members and volunteers together at Binyanei HaUma in Jerusalem for a major event organized by the “LeHachayot” organization in support of children with disabilities and their families.

Held in the main hall of Jerusalem’s International Convention Center, the gathering combined uplifting musical performances with moments of deep emotion, encouragement and Achdus.

One of the most moving moments of the evening came when the lights were dimmed and a video of the Lubavitcher Rebbe speaking about children with special needs was shown on the large screens.

Families watched as the Rebbe spoke about the unique strength and purpose of these children and referred to their elevated Neshamos. The words brought many in the audience to tears and offered a message of strength, Emunah and hope to parents and families.

The event was attended by the Rishon LeZion and Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi David Yosef, who addressed the crowd and expressed his admiration for the work of LeHachayot.

Rabbi Yosef offered words of encouragement to the parents who devote themselves each day to caring for their children, as well as to the hundreds of volunteers who assist and support the families throughout the year.

The musical portion of the evening was headlined by Jewish music star Yaakov Shwekey, who performed a full concert featuring many of his popular songs.

During the performance, Shwekey made his way into the audience, where he danced together with the children, creating emotional scenes of celebration throughout the packed hall.

Singer Motti Wizel also performed, leading a stirring selection of songs ahead of the upcoming Yomim Noraim. The medley brought an atmosphere of Tefillah and reflection to the gathering, with many participants visibly moved.

Singer and entertainer Shuki Salomon brought another burst of energy to the evening, getting thousands of attendees on their feet and leading large circles of dancing throughout the hall.

A particularly emotional moment came when Rabbi Mendy Lebel, a Chabad Shliach and director of LeHachayot, addressed the gathering.

Standing on stage surrounded by hundreds of children and volunteers, Rabbi Lebel became emotional as he spoke about the families the organization assists throughout the year.

“These children are the light of the world,” he said.

Rabbi Lebel thanked the parents for allowing LeHachayot and its volunteers the privilege of accompanying and assisting their families, while paying tribute to the volunteers who devote themselves to the children throughout the year.

The evening concluded with spirited singing and dancing, as children and parents left Binyanei HaUma following an event organizers described as a powerful display of Ahavas Yisroel and a source of renewed strength, hope and Emunah ahead of the new year.