Full Editorial
Since the brutal terror attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and the war that was forced upon Israel as a result, “Swords of Iron,” the State of Israel faces a difficult and painful reality. Many children have lost their parents in tragic circumstances, and have been orphaned as a direct result of the hostilities. This sudden loss, which changed their world overnight, has left a huge void in their lives and presents them with enormous challenges. The number of children who have lost a parent, and even both parents, has doubled since that black Saturday, and the need for support and assistance for them has become more urgent and significant than ever. The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization (IDFWO) is a vital address for these families, providing them with an envelope of hope and support.
How Does the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization (IDFWO) Cope with the Dramatic Increase in the Number of Orphans?
Since the events of October 7th and the “Swords of Iron” war, the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization (IDFWO), founded in 1991, has faced an unprecedented increase in the number of families in need of its support. The data speaks for itself: The number of children who have lost a parent while serving in the IDF has more than doubled since October 7, 2023. Over 550 new orphans and over 240 new widows have joined the organization since the beginning of the war, indicating a 1,200% annual increase in the number of widows and orphans who have joined the circle of bereavement. As of February 2024, 490 orphans and 222 widows were left behind following the fall of 564 IDF soldiers and 64 police officers. This dramatic increase, which is unparalleled, stretches the organization’s capabilities to the limit and requires a significant expansion of its services.
The organization, which operates under the authority of the Fallen Soldiers’ Families Law, focuses on providing comprehensive support to widows and orphans of IDF soldiers, the Israel Police, and other security forces. Its central mission is to ensure that no bereaved family is left alone in coping with the loss. The enormous increase in the number of families requires a reassessment of the way it operates and the adaptation of resources to the diverse and immediate needs of the new families.
The IDFWO is committed to providing emotional, social, and economic support 365 days a year. They understand that the void left by a fallen soldier cannot be filled, but with appropriate support, they strive to provide hope and comfort to these families. Their goal is to help families navigate the journey of recovery and resilience, and to ensure a future full of dignity and success. The significance of the increase in the number of orphans under the age of 18, for example, is that the organization anticipates a significant need to expand the scholarship program to ensure that every eligible person receives the assistance needed for education and personal growth, both today and in the years to come.
The organization works tirelessly to expand its resources and services to ensure that every family receives the support it needs, for as long as it is needed. This is a collective commitment to support the widows and orphans left behind by those who sacrificed their lives for our security and freedom.
What Unique Assistance Programs Does the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization Offer to Orphans and Their Families?
The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization (IDFWO) has developed a wide range of flagship programs and unique initiatives, designed to provide a holistic and comprehensive response to the changing needs of orphans and widows, especially in light of the dramatic increase in their number since the events of October 7th. The overarching goal is to provide emotional, social, educational, and economic support throughout all stages of life, from childhood to adulthood.
One of the flagship programs of the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization is the “Otzma” (Strength) program. This program provides ongoing and holistic support within a community framework, and focuses on four annual camps for orphans aged 6-18. The camps offer therapeutic and recreational activities, leadership and teamwork skills development, creative and expressive workshops, and guided therapeutic discussions. “Otzma” provides a safe, empathetic, and fun environment, where participants build a community with peers who share similar experiences. Recently, the program has been expanded to include widows with young children, highlighting the organization’s flexibility to adapt its services to the needs arising from the field.
Another important program is “TELA” (Program for Realizing Qualities), intended for orphans aged 6-18. This program empowers orphans to cultivate their unique talents and realize their greatest dreams through personalized programs, focused training, mentoring, tools, and resources in their specific areas of interest. TELA nurtures the potential of each child and helps them thrive in the area they are most passionate about, thereby strengthening their self-confidence and sense of identity.
For pregnant widows, the “L’Tzidch” (By Your Side) initiative was launched. This initiative provides comprehensive emotional and practical support to pregnant war widows, from pregnancy to postpartum care. The program accompanies the women in this sensitive stage, providing them with the tools and support needed to cope with the unique challenges of single parenthood after loss.
Adult orphans can find comfort and healing in the “Deep Blue Healing Program.” This is a five-day therapeutic diving course in Eilat, which allows adult orphans to deal with the complexities of loss and bereavement through an empowering therapeutic experience. The shared diving experience fosters strong connections and a support network that extends far beyond the program itself.
In addition, the organization provides annual scholarships that are a critical component in fostering the academic and personal growth of adult widows and orphans. With the significant increase in the number of orphans, the organization anticipates a significant need to expand the scholarship program to ensure that everyone who is eligible can continue on a path of education and personal development. These programs, and many others, highlight the organization’s commitment to accompany bereaved families every step of the way, every day of the year, for the rest of their lives.
How Can You Support the Relief Efforts for the Orphans of October 7th?
The need to support children and families who have lost loved ones in the events of October 7th and the “Swords of Iron” war is profound and ongoing. The IDF Widows and Orphans Organization (IDFWO) is committed to standing by these families for the long term, but in order to continue and expand its vital services, it needs public assistance.
Your donation to the IDF Widows and Orphans Organization is more than just a gift; it is a powerful statement of solidarity and compassion. Every donation, large or small, helps honor the legacy of Israel’s heroes and support those they loved most. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible in many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Israel, and Australia, making it easier to support. Join the circle of supporters of the IDFWO and be part of the effort to provide a future of hope and light for these children.
