Following the conclusions of the Almog Committee after the war, Gal Hirsch decided to leave his military position and to devote himself to social and welfare projects in Israel.

Following this decision, Gal Hirsch met with Meir Panim Chairman Dudi Zilbershlag. This meeting of the two experts in their fields was not only productive, but also marked the beginning of a strong friendship. At the end of the meeting, Hirsch agreed to take a tour of Meir Panim‘s facilities. On Jan. 11, 2007. Gal Hirsch and his wife Donna visited the Kiryat Malachi branch of Meir Panim. There they met with branch manager Adi Parchan, and were impressed by Meir Panim’s unique project which involves employing emotional disturbed people to prepare the food.

The couple then visited the children’s afternoon club located in the local Netzach Yisrael school and met with the principal Ayala Hag’ag. The tour continued with an hour-long visit to the Power of Giving warehouse in Kiryat Gat where they met with the manager Gadi Malka.

After enjoying lunch at Meir Panim’s soup kitchen in Kiryat Gat, Gal Hirsch wrote in the guest book: “I cannot wait until the next time I visit to experience the power of greatness, modesty, loving-kindness and dedication in the fullest sense of the word.” The visit concluded with all of the participants visiting the Hirsch’s home in Rosh Ha’Ayin.

The special connection formed between Brigadier General Hirsch and Meir Panim strengthens the triple bond of the army, education and society and encourages these three focal points to continue to contribute together to the social and educational power of Israel by creating additional important projects that promote these values.