Sailors from USS Porter (DDG 78) participated in a Community Relations Project (COMREL) the Sahlav Project Youth Home in Haifa, Israel.
The Sahlav Project is part of a national network of sites in Israel with the goal to help and support youth at risk by providing food, lodging, counseling and activities for youth evicted from their homes.

"The Sailors who participated had a positive experience. We were honored to have the chance to serve an important community organization and to spend time with the youth," said Lt. T Luke E. Wilson, USS Porter (DDG 78) Command Chaplain "We're grateful for the opportunity we have in the Navy to visit different countries and to serve others."

"I felt very blessed to be able to give back and help out with less fortunate kids," said Hospital Corpsman Adia Corbin.

In addition to providing service, the purpose of the COMREL was to strengthen U.S. - Israeli relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure, and prosperous region and give Sailors the opportunity to interact with the youth and learn more about the local culture. Participating Sailors painted and cleaned at the site, and donated soccer balls, basketballs, and volleyballs.

Oscar Sharon, the director of the home, expressed his appreciation to our Sailors for helping and for spending time with the youth.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.