Six months into the war

As we mark six months since the harrowing events of October 7, our hearts are weighed down by the loss of 604 of Israel's brave soldiers. In this period, the number of orphans under our care has more than doubled, and close to 240 new widows joined our fold. Despite the profound void left by these heroes, our resolve to support their families has never been stronger.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, we launched a special hotline to offer rapid assistance. The hotline became a lifeline, allowing us to quickly understand and respond to the urgent needs of our members, often needs that were overlooked by other agencies.

In addition to providing emotional support and conducting home visits for the dramatically unprecedented amount of new widows, our emergency response extended well beyond the confines of immediate crisis management. We launched projects tailored to meet the unique needs of specific groups that had not previously been considered at this scale. Among these initiatives was the Letzidech Project for Pregnant Widows, designed to offer comprehensive support to expectant mothers. Recognizing the potential hesitation among newly bereaved children, we extended an invitation to the mothers of new orphans to join our Otzma camps, aiming to foster a sense of community and support during a time when isolation could easily take hold. Additionally, we introduced a Therapeutic Retreat for Childless Widows, focusing on the distinct emotional challenges faced by widows without children. These initiatives were not merely about providing practical assistance; they were carefully crafted to facilitate emotional healing and promote personal growth among those who have suffered unimaginable losses.

As our annual activities expand due to the severe losses of the ongoing war, the positive impact and gratitude we receive from those we serve have been profoundly meaningful. Just in the last month, our efforts have brought together more than 300 orphans for a joyous Purim celebration, facilitated a rejuvenating retreat in the desert for young adults seeking solace and healing, and hosted a deeply meaningful Bar and Bat Mitzvah event at which 52 orphans had the opportunity to mark their coming of age at the Western Wall, followed by a special reception attended by President Isaac Herzog. These moments of joy and community are a testament to the resilience and spirit of those we support, and they underscore the significance of our commitment to nurturing and celebrating every life we touch.

Looking back on these six months, I am both heartbroken by the losses and inspired by the resilience displayed by our community. The path to recovery is long and fraught with challenges, but together, we have made significant strides. Our commitment remains unwavering: to provide comprehensive, lifelong support to our families, ensuring that the legacy of Israel's fallen heroes is honored and that their loved ones are cared for, today, tomorrow, and always.

As we continue to navigate these turbulent times, I extend my deepest gratitude to our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters. Your generosity and dedication have been our stronghold, enabling us to reach and help many in their darkest hours.

In closing, as we reflect on this period of profound loss and resilience, let us renew our commitment to each other, and to every widow and orphan in our care, embodying the strength and spirit of our nation.

Shlomi Nahumson

CEO, IDF Widows & Orphans Organization