The goal of the Absorption Center is to help integrate and prepare olim for independent living within Israeli society.

Background
The Tapuz absorption center is located on the shores of the Mediterranean in the city of Nahariya. The population of Nahariya is approximately 52,000 residents and is considered the capital of the Western Galilee. Nahariya is a lively metropolitan city, which sees increased absorption as a blessing. The municipality is actively involved in assisting and contributing to the successful absorption of new immigrants. The city has a hospital, culture and sports center, as well as all the services of a thriving municipality.

Accommodations
The Tapuz absorption center comprises an 8-storey building with elevators and 128 apartment units. Units are of varying sizes. Basic appliances and furnishings, including beds, closets, refrigerator, stove, chairs and tables, are also provided. Upon arrival, new immigrants are welcomed with basic food provisions for their first days.

The center's facilities include a computer room, playroom, games room and tended gardens.

Activities and Special Projects
The Center provides activities for both adults and children.

For adults this includes Hebrew studies, conversion classes, seminars, and community activities, workshops on parenting, employment, consumerism and trips around Israel.

The Cohen/Davidovsky family pose for a photo with young people from the Jewish Agency's Tapuz Absorption Center. The shirts and hats were donated by the family in honor of Talia Davidovsky's upcoming Bat Mitzvah.

Activities for children focus on educational reinforcement and enrichment in subjects such as Jewish customs, festivals and Israeli culture. In addition, they have sports, drama, music, day camps, trips and more.

Activities are geared towards the different stages of absorption and assisting olim in becoming familiar with their new surroundings.

Special Projects
Friends Network and Community Involvement – There is an extensive circle of friends that includes voluntary organizations and individuals who contribute to the successful absorption of Ethiopian immigrants in Nahariya. Throughout the years, their contribution has enriched the cultural activity and general atmosphere at the center.

Israeli Cooking - Regular classes in cooking Israeli food, familiarity with products and special menus for Israeli holidays and celebrations, take place in the center.

Adult Workshops - Workshops are held on employment, relationships and parenting, household management and institutions and services in Israel

Home Maintenance - Classes are held to give the olim information on buying and maintaining a home in Israel.

For Children
Mentoring Club - A special Mentoring Club takes place in the afternoon hours for the center's children and provides strengthening in schoolwork and homework assistance.

Educational Reinforcement - Extra reinforcement in Hebrew and math studies is available for children and youth.

Preparation for First Grade - Readiness class for first grade for preschool children prior to their entering school

Summer Camp - A yearly summer day camp is held for the center's children and combines crafts, performances, hiking and general activities in cooperation with local volunteer groups.

Staff
A dedicated and professional staff is responsible for the care of the new immigrants and for the daily running of the absorption center. The staff consists of six full time employees and part-time staff members. They include a director, administrative assistant, head of education and culture, social worker, housemother and counselors.