?Who is the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization
The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization is an Israeli non-profit organization. The organization is there to support the family members of IDF and security forces fallen soldiers. It was established in 1991 and has since provided emotional, social, and economic support to widows and orphans. The organization also represents them before the Knesset and the public, to ensure their rights and assist them in any way possible.
?What is the Current Situation of Orphans in Israel
The situation in Israel is complex, especially in light of recent events. The number of orphans supported by the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization has doubled since October 7, 2023. Today, the organization supports more than 13,000 orphans of all ages, as well as 8,000 widows.
There are approximately 35,000 orphans in israel, many of whom are under the age of 18. This reality requires us to act to provide them with the support they deserve. Recent events, such as Operation Swords of Iron, have only increased the need for this support, and we are here to help them get through this difficult time.
How Does the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization Support Orphans?
The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization offers comprehensive support programs for orphans of all ages, to ensure they receive everything they need to cope with the loss and build a strong future.
Strength Camps: These are camps designed for orphans aged 6-18, and take place during holiday breaks and summer vacation. The camps provide a safe environment where children can process their loss and build personal resilience. The activities in the camp are adapted to different ages, and include games, creative workshops, trips, and more.
Strength Plus: This program is designed for older orphans, aged 19-29. The program focuses on the specific needs of young orphans, such as preparing for studies, finding a job, and more. The program includes social gatherings, enrichment workshops, and personal counseling.
Educational Support: The organization provides orphans with school supplies at the beginning of each school year, and offers academic scholarships to students. This support helps orphans succeed in their studies and fulfill their dreams.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Missions: The organization allows orphans to participate in missions abroad, where they can meet peers and build a supportive community. The missions are a powerful and life-changing experience, which helps orphans cope with the loss and strengthen themselves.
Financial Assistance: The organization provides medical grants to finance special medical treatments, birthday gifts, and grooming kits for orphans enlisting in the IDF. This financial assistance helps orphans and their families cope with unexpected expenses.
We invite you to support the activities of the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization and help us give orphans the best possible future.
What Challenges and Advocacy Does the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization Face?
The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization works tirelessly to improve the lives of widows and orphans, but there are many challenges we face. One of the main challenges is changing laws that exclude orphans who lost a parent after the age of 21 from receiving benefits. We are also fighting to ensure that orphans who start academic studies after the age of 30 receive free tuition.
In addition, we are working to ensure that no elderly widows live in poverty, and that they can live with dignity. We work hard to bridge the gaps in government support, and to expand and improve the benefits that widows and orphans deserve.
The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization provides critical emotional, social, and economic support to orphans, helping them cope with the loss and build a strong future. The organization's work is especially important in light of the current situation in Israel. We continue to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the widows and orphans of Israel's heroes.