When the war began, Telfed recognized the urgent need to expand our support services. We brought in a second social worker to handle the increased volume of assistance required. Initially focusing on evacuees, she is now also dedicated to working with wounded soldiers—meeting them, hearing their challenges, and determining how we can help.
Over the past few months, our visits to wounded soldiers in rehabilitation hospitals have revealed the depth of the physical and emotional scars they bear. While these courageous individuals navigate the rehabilitation process, they also face the additional burden of the financial impact of their injuries. With immense pride, Telfed representatives visited Tel Hashomer Hospital to meet some of the heroes we have the privilege of assisting.
In collaboration with Kehilat Lev Ra’anana, we hosted our first Rosh Chodesh breakfast club at Beit Loewenstein Rehabilitation hospital to bring comfort and community to wounded soldiers. Additionally, we are providing financial assistance through scholarships for soldiers looking to pivot and adapt to their disabilities, focusing on empowering them through education and new opportunities.
We have also purchased essential medical and rehabilitation equipment for two hospitals and are in ongoing contact with other facilities to identify where and how we can further assist.
Many wounded soldiers feel they have been forgotten, but we are committed to ensuring that, on behalf of South African and Australian Olim, they feel our support and care. Through physical, emotional, and financial assistance, we allocate aid to each soldier or facility according to their specific needs.
At Telfed, we believe in standing by our heroes—not just in words, but through meaningful actions. We could not do this vital work without the support of our community. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our safety and freedom.