St Martha's House

Put simply, St Martha's House is a lifeline for the ladies who attend there.

Since 2009 Friends of the Holy Land has supported St Martha’s House, the first day care centre for elderly women in Bethlehem aged 70+. 

They are mainly widows living alone with no one to care for them, either because their families have emigrated or they simply can't afford to help. Therefore, many of these elderly women live a lonely and isolated existence outside of St Martha’s. 

No welfare systems exist in Bethlehem such as state pensions, healthcare or social services to provide a safety net of support. St Martha’s provides a safe and caring environment where they can spend quality time with friends.

Eight specialist staff and volunteers (all Christians) provide support for ongoing healthcare checks, haircare, podiatry and assistance in crafts and cooking skills during the women’s day in St Martha’s.

The ladies enjoy various activities such as board games, embroidery and tending their garden as well as having a midday meal (using produce from their garden where they can - pictured right). Overall, they have the benefit of companionship, good friends and the peace of mind that they are not forgotten.  

The ladies love having visitors to St Martha's House. They really enjoy new company and are always looking to welcome new friends into their midst. If you are visiting Bethlehem, make sure your itinerary includes a chance to drop in and meet them. You will come away smiling!

As other sources of funding have dried up, Friends of the Holy Land remains committed to this project. We know what a difference it makes to the lives of these ladies in terms of social, emotional and physical support. 

Will you step in to help keep St Martha's House open?

Click here to read a recipe from St Martha's House