Ava* was born in Mexico and moved to Israel (to her uncles home) when she was six years old. Her mother suffered from psychiatric illness, and her father abused her sexually when she was three years old. She suffered a lot over the course of her childhood; she was neglected, and did not receive basic care. She experienced a serious leg injury as a result of an accident relating to an elevator and spent time in the hospital as a result.

When she arrived in Israel, she had no Hebrew, and no one knew that she was hearing impaired. The situation at her uncle's house was no better than at her parent's home. She was removed from her uncle's home and placed in foster care, but that arrangement did not work out either and subsequently she was transferred to Ahuzat Yeladim.

Ava's adjustment at Ahuzat was complex. She has no familial supports, and remains in the Shabbat house for most weekends and holidays. 

She suffers from post trauma, mood swings and has difficulty with inter personal relations.

Despite these challenges, the staff at Ahuzat are hopeful about Ava's future. They believe that she is advancing with her therapies, and reaching significant improvements.

Ava has a strong interest in her school work, and realizes that her future depends on her investment in her studies. As a result of her hard work and Ahuzat's support, she received a certificate of excellence for her high grades. Ava is also working hard at improving her interpersonal skills and receives the assistance of a university student/counsellor. 

She enjoyed an extra-curricular guitar program last year, and this year she helps out in a local nursery twice a week as part of a program offered by Ahuzat.

Ava has participated in art therapy for the past four years. There are plans for her to participate in Tel Aviv University's mentoring program where she will be trained to mentor younger girls who have backgrounds similar to hers.

This is Ava's fifth and final year at Ahuzat. She has been relieved from doing IDF duty due to her emotional situation, and lack of family support. The staff at Ahuzat Yeladim will help Ava locate suitable housing.