"I will stand side by side with you”

This month, former New York City Mayor Eric Adams visited Kfar Maccabiah for an emotional and meaningful meeting with released hostages currently staying with us as part of Maccabi World Union’s support initiative. Adams met with Yarden Bibas, Bar Kuperstein, and Sagiv Dekel-Chen, together with MWU leadership.

During his visit, he was awarded the Maccabiah Honor Medal and officially invited to the 2026 Opening Ceremony.

Speaking openly about the difficult months since October 7 and about the strength of the Jewish people, Adams praised Kfar Maccabiah as a place that provides safety, warmth, and a path toward healing for those who endured the unimaginable.

"We cannot be naïve and think that the struggle will fade away", he said. "Seeing antisemitism rise is painful, but you carry extraordinary resilience. If you live long enough, you will experience pain - the challenge is turning that pain into purpose. The same is true for you, the hostages and your families, who faced the worst horrors. You must find purpose in order to move forward".

Addressing the global rise in antisemitism, Adams called for unity and determination: "Antisemitism has never been only about Gaza — it has always been, and still is, an attempt to destroy Israel and the Jewish people. It has happened throughout history, and if we are not vigilant, it will intensify and spread around the world. The time to act is now. We must unite to protect the Jewish people".

In a powerful expression of solidarity, Adams added: "I’m not just a mayor leaving office. I’m your brother. I will continue to stand side by side with you.”

We are deeply grateful to Eric Adams for his visit, his empathy, and his unwavering commitment to the Jewish community worldwide.

At Kfar Maccabiah, we remain committed to supporting the released hostages and their families with care and comfort, true to Maccabi’s core values, as they rebuild their lives.