May 6, 2024
Providing Support for Israel’s Bereaved Families
As we approach Yom Ha’Zikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, it is critical to recognize that grief has touched nearly every home in Israel since October 7. In response, Federation has significantly increased funding for services that support bereaved families, through both our Annual Federation/UJA Campaign and our Israel Emergency Fund, which has raised more than $29 million to date. A variety of programs assist families of fallen IDF soldiers, victims of terror and disasters and those killed by Hamas on 10/7 through individual and group psychological counseling, personalized grief support and opportunities to connect with others sharing the same experiences.
Some of the many Federation-funded programs assisting at this critical time:
The Jewish Agency for Israel's Fund for Victims of Terror
Often the first responder for families and individuals impacted by terror, the organization distributes immediate grants, offering support for short-term needs and helping with long-term rehabilitation and post-trauma care. Since October, more than 8,000 grants have been distributed or are in process, providing timely financial assistance to Israelis impacted by the war and the families of those killed, wounded or kidnapped.
The Koby Mandell Foundation
This Foundation helps Israelis who have lost loved ones due to an act of terror or other tragedy rebuild their lives and find meaning out of suffering. It runs camps for children and programs for women, couples and families. Since October 7, it has operated therapeutic healing retreats for bereaved Israelis.
National Organization for Victims of Terror (NVOT)
This is the State of Israel’s official representative organization supporting thousands of Israelis who have been recognized as victims of terror. Its Ma’atefet program assigns a professional support person to families of orphans and widows from October 7 and provides broad logistical support, administrative assistance and emotional support during the challenging initial months after a terror attack.
Navah
Navah provides emotional and psychological support to bereaved families of IDF soldiers and victims of terror and disasters with a focus on group activities. Its Empty Chair initiative provides a lifeline during Passover, where the empty chair at the table becomes a stark symbol of a family’s loss. Navah offers bereaved families a supportive environment to share their grief and celebrate the holiday with a sense of community.
Our Brothers
Founded by bereaved siblings, Our Brothers welcomes all Israelis — Jews and non-Jews, religious, secular, ultra-Orthodox — united by the shared experience of losing a brother or sister. Since October 7, Our Brothers has expanded its services to embrace the recent surge in bereaved siblings. They offer meaningful programs, like nature retreats before Yom Ha’Zikaron and group therapy sessions, fostering connection and solace.
The Partners of Fallen IDF Soldiers
While married spouses of fallen soldiers receive support from the IDF and the National Insurance Institute, unmarried partners have no official legal status and therefore can be left without the support they need after the death of their loved ones. This program supports the significant others of fallen IDF soldiers, providing them tailored therapeutic assistance and emotional support as they navigate the challenging journey ahead.
Pastoral Care for Bereaved Families
Over the past seven months, the immense need for support around death, mourning and spiritual well-being have demanded a swift response. With support from Federations, a group of organizations are working together to help families navigate the difficult rituals surrounding death and mourning, ensuring respectful final goodbyes for loved ones and offering personalized guidance during the complex grieving process.
