MJCCA Preschool Launches ‘Plant & Play’

An event in May at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta’s (MJCCA) Schiff Preschool included a surprise for the family that sponsored it.

“Plant and Play in the Dirt Day” is a new initiative introduced this year, inspired by a generous donation from the L’hommedieu family. They funded the planting of orange flowers in memory of the Bibas boys, who were tragically taken hostage and killed in Gaza.

“Beyond their generous donation, the L’hommedieu family has demonstrated deep, consistent support for the Jewish community through acts of kindness, solidarity, and generosity,” said MJCCA staff. “Since enrolling their son at our Jewish preschool, they have embraced our community wholeheartedly — celebrating Jewish holidays with meaningful gifts, supporting teachers and students, and standing with us during times of crisis.”

When antisemitic flyers appeared in local neighborhoods, the family delivered flowers and a handwritten note to express unity and peace. They also promoted and funded academic programs on the Holocaust in rural areas to combat denialism.

The entire L’hommedieu family was invited to join Liam’s Pre-K class for the event. Each child received a gardening apron and tools, along with orange hats as a tribute to the Bibas boys’ red hair. Everything was carefully timed to surprise the family with a meaningful presentation of a White Rose from The White Rose Society, in recognition of their continuing support of the Jewish community.

The director of The Schiff School, Stephanie Lampert, welcomed the family by sharing a statement recognizing their impact. Julie Rau, executive director of The White Rose Society, spoke and presented the family with their White Rose statue, while Rabbis Max and Rachael Miller from Temple Emanu-El offered a heartfelt blessing in their honor.

“When we were informed that we were being recognized by The White Rose Society, we were entirely blown away and overwhelmed,” said the L’hommedieu family. “It was a complete shock and probably one of the largest honors we’ve received. Our support of The Schiff School was always driven by doing more for an organization that had done so much for our family rather than any recognition. It was a reminder that there is always an opportunity to do more.”