Last night 300 guests attended a Gala Dinner at the Montcalm, Marble Arch, in support of Jewish Child’s Day.  The evening was nothing less then spectacular, in the presence of His Excellency, Ambassador Mark Regev and Holocaust survivor Eva Schloss MBE.

Executive Director Nicole Gordon opened the evening by explaining that the ‘Walk With Me’ theme resonates so well with the charity, as every Jewish Child in need yearns for someone to Walk with them every step of the way. “Tonight is all about our partnership with the thousands of Jewish Children around the world, to help them live, smile and play like children”. Nicole added, “The inspiration behind tonight’s dinner came from a trek last October, where we walked one afternoon with a group of children from Simcha Layeled, just one of the 120 projects we support each year. Many of the children had to overcome physical disabilities to be with us on the day, however, we all came together for a moment that will stay in my heart forever”.

Charles Spungin the charity’s chairman introduced Eva Schloss, the guest speaker for the evening. “At the recent funeral service for the five adults and one child who had perished at Auschwitz, Chief Rabbi Mirvis spoke about how the victims of the Shoah had been denied the opportunity to grow up and enjoy a fulfilling childhood”. Spungin continued, “This is exactly what Jewish Child’s Day strives to do every day of the year - giving children the chances that too many didn’t get- to be well, learn and to have fun”.

There was not a dry eye in the room as Eva Schloss, MBE, gave a gripping and heart-wrenching account of how her mother, father and brother endured the horrific atrocities of Nazi Germany. Eva told the room how it took until 40 years after the liberation for her to tell her story, and how after being liberated she was more depressed than when she was in Auschwitz. “When I was in the camp I had to use all my energy to stay alive, but after the liberation I had nothing to live for and depression set in”.

“We were honoured and indeed privileged to have Eva Schloss address the crowd last night- she is a true inspiration and at almost 90 years of age a remarkable lady”. Nicole added, “My only regret is that we only had 20 minutes to hear Eva’s story - we could have listened to her all night”.

“The Walk With Me Dinner raised over £220k, which is absolutely phenomenal for a charity of our size. We are so grateful to everyone who came along and supported our Gala Dinner. The funds raised will ensure that we can carry on with our wonderful work in supporting 120 projects each year, and over 12,000 children”, concluded Spungin.