About the project
The Jerusalem Foundation established the Joseph & Caroline Gruss Community Center in the north end of Romema (also known as Kiryat Sheva or Kiryat Mattersdorf) in 1972. The center is one of the largest community centers in Jerusalem, providing programs and services for residents of all ages. The Jerusalem Foundation created a library at the center in 1976, a multi-purpose hall in 1977, the Sam & Simone Mallah Day Care Center in 1980, renovations to the basketball court in 1995 and a seniors’ center in 1997. The Foundation also has supported activities for all ages, including many innovative programs: a laundry club that enabled women to attend programs while doing their families’ laundry; a program for unemployed teenagers; an expressive arts workshop for children, youth, adults, and the first of its kind satellite community center to help integrate immigrants from the former Soviet Union into the center’s mainstream programming. The center oversees activities of the Neve Chemed Community Center.The center originally featured an enamel wall by artist Ruth Ne’eman in its entrance lobby.
