On a bright morning that carried echoes of hope and heartbreak, Toys for Hospitalized Children opened the Bibas Family Playroom at Schneider Children’s Medical Center.
This grand opening marked the first in a series of four therapeutic playrooms that will bring healing, laughter, and light to children facing medical challenges. In attendance were Yarden Bibas, members of the Bibas family, hospital leadership, major donors, and media from Israel and around the world.
The story behind it: Board Member and philanthropist Michelle Domb remembers the day vividly. She was visiting Schneider Children’s Hospital as part of her work with Toys for Hospitalized Children. That very day, the funeral of the Bibas children — Shiri, Ariel, and baby Kfir A”H — was taking place, their memory marked across Israel by waves of orange balloons.
The symbolism struck her deeply.
Later that day, she visited Kever Rochel. Emerging from that sacred space, Michelle turned to JJ Hecht, president of Toys for Hospitalized Children and said, “I want to dedicate one of the playrooms in honor of the Bibas family.”
Designed with Love, Built for Joy
The Bibas Family Playroom is a deeply immersive space, designed to reflect the beauty and warmth of the family’s kibbutz. The room features butterflies, bright orange flowers, and special touches that honor the children’s memory — including Tonto, the family dog, and a purple elephant, the last toy Ariel and Kfir played with.
It’s a room of smiles and solace — a haven where sick children can play, rest, and begin to heal.
“This playroom aims to bring light during life’s darkest times,” said Michelle. “It’s a space where children can play, smile, and recover. A reminder that joy is a crucial part of healing. Happy kids heal faster.”
Partnering in this project is Sruli Anatian, who dedicated his support to make his beloved mother proud.
“My Ima taught me that kindness knows no bounds,” Sruli shared. “Helping create this room was my way of sharing her love — by spreading joy where it’s needed most.”
Maurice Shnaider, uncle of Shiri Bibas, reflected through tears and strength:
“When Rabbi JJ told me about the playroom to honor Ariel and Kfir, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. After everything our family endured on October 7, this space brings comfort. Seeing it bring joy to sick children is the greatest tribute we could imagine.”
Mindy Schneider — whose family is a major benefactor of the hospital and its magnificent glass building — also shared heartfelt words: “Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir will live on through this playroom forever.”
The Bibas Family Playroom is the first of four therapeutic playrooms being built at Schneider by Toys for Hospitalized Children. Each one is uniquely designed to spark creativity, stimulate the senses, and help children feel like children — even in the midst of medical hardship.
Designed in partnership with Ovadia Design Group and Breeze Creative, the room uses award-winning touchless technology, combining safety and beauty to create an immersive, healing experience.
“This isn’t just a room with toys,” said Rabbi JJ Hecht II, founder of Toys for Hospitalized Children. “It’s a place where joy becomes part of the cure. When a child plays, they begin to heal — body and soul.”
Dr. Efrat Bron-Harlev, CEO of Schneider Children’s, added:
“At Schneider, we believe healing is not just physical. Children are whole beings — emotional, creative, spiritual. This playroom brings that belief to life.”
