This month marked the launch of Yankuta (“early infancy” in Aramaic), a groundbreaking support program for first-time mothers in Haredi and religious communities. The first meeting brought together a full group of young mothers who arrived with openness, curiosity, and a clear need for guidance during one of the most transformative moments in their lives. The atmosphere was warm, energetic, and immediately supportive, setting the tone for what promises to be a powerful new community initiative.
Yankuta fills a gap that traditional services cannot meet. While Tipat Halav provides essential medical care, young mothers often face the emotional, physical, and practical challenges of caring for a newborn with little structured support. Yankuta offers a holistic model that combines infant care, maternal wellbeing, emotional resilience, and the chance to connect with peers who understand the journey.
During the opening session, mothers explored topics such as healthy routines, postpartum emotions, self care, and balancing early parenthood with family life. Professional facilitators guided conversations with cultural sensitivity, and the group dynamic quickly became one of honesty, shared experience, and mutual encouragement.
The program is built on strong community partnerships, including Urban 95, and the Ma’ale Ramot community administration. It is generously supported by our donors at the UJA Federation of New York, whose commitment to young families helped make this initiative possible.
By the end of the meeting, the impact was already clear. Mothers reported feeling less alone, more confident, and eager for the next sessions. The success of this first gathering signals a promising path ahead.
Yankuta is becoming a safe and empowering space for new mothers, strengthening families and building community resilience from the very first stages of parenthood.