A prestigious award given to organizations and individuals who work voluntarily
On Sunday, June 7, 2026, at a moving ceremony held in Jerusalem, Rabbi Yosef Cohen, Chairman of Chasdei Naomi, was presented with the Jerusalem Mayor’s Volunteer Award,a prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals and organizations whose exceptional volunteer work has made a meaningful contribution to Jerusalem and its residents.
The award was presented in recognition of Chasdei Naomi’s 42 years of dedicated service to the people of Jerusalem, with a particular focus on Holocaust survivors, senior citizens, and families in need.
Established during the Iron Swords War at the initiative of Mayor Moshe Leon, the Jerusalem Mayor’s Volunteer Award recognizes and expresses gratitude to the individuals and organizations who serve the city and its residents. The award reflects the values of generosity, solidarity, and unity that define Jerusalem and is presented to volunteers and organizations whose exceptional contributions have made a significant and lasting impact on the community.
For more than four decades, Chasdei Naomi has built a comprehensive support network throughout Jerusalem, providing essential assistance to thousands of families and individuals every year.
A vast and comprehensive support system that reaches thousands of families and individuals each year
One of the organization’s most meaningful initiatives is its home visitation program for Holocaust survivors living alone. Dedicated volunteers make regular visits, providing not only practical support,such as food, medication, and essential supplies,but also companionship, encouragement, and a caring presence. For many survivors, these visits are the highlight of their week and an important reminder that they are not alone.
In addition to its ongoing support for Holocaust survivors, Chasdei Naomi operates a permanent food distribution network throughout Jerusalem, providing food packages, holiday boxes, and essential household items to families in need. Before every Jewish holiday, the organization expands its efforts to help ensure that every family can celebrate with dignity.
During the Iron Swords War, Chasdei Naomi significantly expanded its work throughout Jerusalem. The organization provided assistance to widows and bereaved families, supported the families of soldiers and reservists, and worked alongside municipal and government officials to provide rapid assistance to those facing hardship as a result of the war.
Receiving the Jerusalem Mayor’s Volunteer Award is a meaningful public recognition of Rabbi Yosef Cohen’s leadership and Chasdei Naomi’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Jerusalem through compassion, dignity, and decades of dedicated service to its residents