The Fund for Victims of Terror
Annual Report 2025
Chair of the Fund
Ayelet Nahmias Verbin
Dear Partners and Beneficiaries, I am excited to share with you the journey of the Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror since the great disaster of October 7th. I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude that all the living hostages have returned to their loving families, with the exception of one hostage whose family has not yet been granted the closure they so deserve. Our hearts are with the Gvili family – whose loved one must also return. Right after the disaster, we realized that one of the critical needs was to maintain a personal approach and close management of the rehabilitation needs of each beneficiary. With the tremendous support of the leadership of the Jewish Agency, my friends Mark Wilf, Doron Almog and Yehuda Setton, I was able to lead the Fund through both familiar challenges and unexpected ones, including the war with Iran. Since I was appointed Chair of the Fund, I have led a proactive policy toward our beneficiaries. Over the past year, we have deepened our understanding of the evolving needs of the victims of the massacre. Rehabilitation today is very different from what we once knew – more dynamic and complex, especially as time passes from the initial disaster. In parallel to caring for victims of the 'Iron Swords' war, the Fund distributed thousands of emergency grants to those injured during 'Operation Rising Lion.' Following a significant decision by the leadership of the Jewish Agency, we mobilized to support families who paid a heavy personal price. Once again, the Jewish communities rose to the challenge, and our teams stood with residents of Bat Yam, Ramat Gan, Rishon LeZion, Rehovot, Petah Tikva, Bnei Brak, Beer Sheva, Tamra, Haifa and Tel Aviv. We continued to expand and deepen group rehabilitation programs, assisting over 7,000 victims from both the immediate and wider circles and supporting community rebuilding efforts. We also launched group rehabilitation in northern communities, whose needs differ significantly from those in the south. This work enabled us to partner with the National Insurance Institute and the Ministry of Social Affairs in establishing the 'Family Circle' platform for second- and third-circle families of hostages and bereaved families. The Resilience Table, which I initiated in late 2023, remained active, addressing complex issues such as suicide prevention and reintegration into the workforce. On the eve of last Yom Kippur, the table convened at the President’s House, at the invitation of Michal Herzog, to focus on employment challenges. The Fund will continue to lead this table, strengthening collaboration among our partners. I am grateful to our partners in the North American Federations and Keren Hayesod communities, and to our Christian partners worldwide, whose support has been extraordinary. I also thank the public committee I was privileged to chair—together we can meet such weighty challenges. Serving approximately 23,000 victims of terror through emergency grants, rehabilitation grants, summer camps and group programs is the result of an extraordinary team of women led by Yael Raz and her deputy, Rona Amram-Nativ. I am proud of their dedication, compassion and constant presence in the field, as well as of the support teams at the Jewish Agency—fundraising, finance, IT, legal, communications and marketing. I have led the Fund for five years. I never imagined the task would be so heavy—and at the same time so meaningful. We have had the privilege of standing alongside thousands of Israelis from all sectors. With deep appreciation for the trust and commitment of our partners, I look forward to continuing this vital work in 2026. Ayelet Nachmias-Verbin Chairperson, The Fund for Victims of Terror, The Jewish Agency for Israel
The Jewish Agency Executive
Mark Wilf, Chair of the Board of Governors
Doron Almog, Chair of the Executive
Yehuda Setton, CEO & Director General
Dear Friends and Partners, Since October 7th, the State of Israel and the entire Jewish People have been going through one of the most difficult chapters in their history. Countless families have faced pain and loss. Yet alongside the great sorrow, we have also witnessed extraordinary strength – of Arvut Hadadit, faith, and united action. We have seen the Jewish People at its finest. We have seen communities around the world rise to their feet, extending their embrace, resources, and prayers. We have felt the shared responsibility, the shared destiny, the outstretched hands. The heart beating as one. From that dreadful day and to this very day, more than two years later, the Jewish Agency's Victims of Terror Fund has stood at the forefront. The Fund provided immediate and initial assistance to families who lost their loved ones, to the families of the hostages, to the injured, and to those whose lives were turned upside down overnight. We understood already then how critical the initial response is. The work carried out by the Fund touches life itself – in the human encounter, in the ability to listen, and in the willingness to extend a helping hand. It is through this work that our national resilience is built. Over the past year, the Fund has distributed grants to victims of the Swords of Iron War, to those affected by "Operation Rising Lion", to the families of the hostages and to the returned hostages. It has organized camps for children, launched rehabilitation and support programs, and strengthened the emotional support networks for families. All through extensive partnerships and thanks to your help, our dear partners and friends. Two years after the war broke out, we still witness the deep and ongoing impact it has had on so many lives. The road to recovery is long yet hope continues to grow. The Jewish Agency's Victims of Terror Fund will continue supporting these families in the coming years, ensuring they are not left alone. Now, more than ever, a broad mobilization is needed to rebuild and strengthen the Israeli society. The Jewish Agency, and within it the Victims of Terror Fund, has both the opportunity – and the responsibility – to lead this process of renewal, in its physical sense and in its emotional and communal sense. The important work of the Victims of Terror Fund at this time could not have taken place without the inspiring commitment of partners and donors who have come together along the way – the Jewish Federations of North America, Keren Hayesod, foundations and individual donors. Our deepest gratitude goes to each and every one of you – for your partnership, generosity, and faith in our mission. Our thanks also go to Ayelet Nahmias Verbin, the Fund's chairperson, whose tireless dedication knows no bounds; to Yael Raz, Rona Amram Nativ and the entire Fund staff, who carry out their roles with utmost sensitivity and professionalism. Serving as a beacon of light for thousands of families and beneficiaries. Thanks to all of you we can continue to rebuild, to heal, and to give hope. Together we will go on standing by our brothers and sisters. Build a stronger, more ethical and more united society. A model society. Mark Wilf, Chair of the Board of Governors Major General (Res.) Doron Almog, Chair of the Executive Yehuda Setton, CEO & Director General
Director of the Fund
Yael Raz
Dear Partners and Associates, The publication of the annual report of the Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror is an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and achievements of the past year and to express our deep gratitude to our partners in Israel and around the world, as well as to the dedicated field teams who accompany victims and their families every day with sensitivity and commitment. The year 2025, like the one before it, was complex and demanding. Four major developments significantly shaped Israeli society and the Fund’s work: the continuation of the fighting in Gaza and on the northern front; the gradual return of displaced communities to their homes; the campaign against Iran, which resulted in severe loss of life and large-scale infrastructure damage; and the ongoing national effort to bring the hostages home. Living under prolonged emergency conditions has made personal and family rehabilitation extremely challenging. Throughout this year, the Fund remained present on the ground—assisting beneficiaries in exercising their rights, maintaining daily contact, visiting affected communities, and adapting support to evolving needs. Through this work, we conveyed the solidarity and embrace of Jewish communities worldwide and sought to offer a horizon of recovery and hope. Alongside the distribution of close to 7,000 rehabilitation grants, we continued to operate summer camps, fun days, and therapeutic retreats. We expanded group programs in both the south and the north and broadened our family retreats. Recognizing the needs of the extended family, we further developed the 'Family Circle' program, supporting second- and third-circle family members in partnership with the National Insurance Institute Funds and the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security. In June 2025, during Operation Rising Lion, the Jewish Agency established a dedicated aid fund for civilians affected by the campaign against Iran. Due to its experience and operational capacity, the Fund for Victims of Terror was entrusted with managing this effort, alongside its ongoing work. We continued to accompany the families of hostages and returnees with great care. By year’s end, we were privileged to witness the return of all living hostages - a moment of profound national relief. The rehabilitation journey is only beginning, and we remain committed to walking alongside them. At the time of writing, Ran Gvili remains in captivity, reminding us of the heavy responsibility we carry. My heartfelt thanks go to the Fund’s extraordinary team, led by our Chair, Ayelet Nachmias-Verbin, whose leadership continues to guide us with dedication and compassion. Special thanks to Rona Amram-Nativ and Hila Gier, and to all the women whose work is the heart of this mission. Thank you to the leadership and management of the Jewish Agency, to our Public Committee, and to our partners across the Jewish world. Together, we continue to transform solidarity into meaningful action. With wishes for health and resilience to all our partners and beneficiaries, Yael Raz Director, The Fund for Victims of Terror The Jewish Agency for Israel
* The data refers to the year 2025
7479
Iron Sword Grants
1058
Children and Youth in Summer Camps
3602
Program Participants
28,540,066 $
Amount of Fund support in 2025
54,457,787 $
Total Fund support since October 7th
Iron Sword Grants
In order to provide a precise and comprehensive response, the team's work was divided into areas of operation:
· The southern urban area, which provides assistance to residents of the cities that were severely affected in the Gaza Envelope.
· The southern rural area, which includes the kibbutzim and moshavim of the western Negev.
· The area of special populations, which is responsible for accompanying the families of the kidnapped and the returnees, the families of the murdered party members, the party survivors, and the Bedouin community.
The flexibility of the Fund allowed it to expand the areas of assistance according to the needs that arose from the field. Along with mental and physical treatments, grants were also given in new areas such as: Therapeutic gardening, musical instruments, therapy dogs, enrichment and personal development courses.
334
Designated and Special Grants
Adapted to complex life situations requiring additional and unique response such as children who lost both parents, returnee grants, multi-victim families
6996
Rehabilitation Grants
Accompanying families in the long term and supporting recovery processes, treatment, and personal, mental, and social rehabilitation
149
Emergency Grants
Intended to provide an immediate response to families who have lost their homes, family members, or source of livelihood
7,479 Grants were Distributed to Victims of the Iron Swords War
Top Requested Assistance Categories
Breakdown by Populations
Top Requested Assistance Categories
Breakdown by Populations
To the Fund for Victims of Terror, the Jewish Agency, I would like to express my deep gratitude and appreciation for the rehabilitation grant that I received from you. Your assistance is not taken for granted, and it came at a vital and meaningful time for me. This support reinforces the feeling that there is someone who sees and cares and supports me in these difficult and challenging moments. The grant was a personal encouragement for me and it warms my heart. Thank you for your dedication and commendable work for the community. ״
Ruthi Peretz, Ofakim
To the staff of the Fund, October 7th changed my life in an instant. I deal with a lot — emotionally, mentally, physically — and it's not always visible. Sometimes even I forget how much strength it takes just to keep my head above water. Your help came exactly when it was needed. It's not just the money; it's the feeling that we are not forgotten – that there are people in Israel and around the world who care. The fact that I can now continue emotional therapy without thinking twice about whether I can handle it, or even go out to ride a bike again, may sound small — but for me it's real progress on the road to rehabilitation. Every little thing like that helps give me back a little more of my life. So again, thank you and the donors. I don't take it for granted."
Itai Hamer, Tel Aviv, Survivor of the Nova Party
After my reality changed following October 7th and I encountered new challenges in my life, I received help and support in all sorts of ways, but my help from the Jewish Agency is special. The way they handled my request for help was extraordinary, inclusive and supportive. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who takes part in providing this help. Keep up the good work and may we only hear good news.
Gilad Foreis, Alumim
Operation Rising Lion
On the morning of June 13, 2025, Israel woke up to a new, complex reality, with the outbreak of the operation 'Rising Lion' against Iran. The damage was severe: dozens of civilians were killed, many were injured, and entire homes were destroyed. Entire families were forced to leave their homes and move to extended stays in hotels across the country.
Within a few days, under the leadership of the Jewish Agency, 'Rising Lion Fund' was established – a dedicated emergency unit of the Fund for Victims of Terror, operating in coordination with local authorities. The Fund distributed immediate emergency grants to families whose homes were completely destroyed or severely damaged, and went into the field with the Fund’s teams to tour the affected areas across the country – in the north, center, and south. The teams met with the families, listened, helped identify urgent needs, and provided human support in the initial moments of shock and rehabilitation.
At the height of the days of uncertainty, Jewish Agency employees and volunteers also went out into the field, to be there with the people, face to face. During two intensive days, the volunteers toured seven hotels where evacuees are staying, including in Bat Yam and Herzliya, and assisted approximately 300 families in filling out application forms for emergency grants.
Subsequently, in partnership with the Class Action Fund, the Fund awarded three additional designated grants: Summer and Hanukkah grants for evacuated families with children aged 3–16, aimed at keeping the children active, strengthening their resilience, and providing moments of joy during this difficult period; and an electrical appliance grant, designed to help families purchase new home equipment as they rebuild their lives.
These Days, the Fund is Completing the Distribution
of the Rising Lion Grants
24
Bereaved families
69
Physically injured
2346
Homes directly hit
2386
Electrical appliances
1083
Grants to children
24
Bereaved
families
69
Physically
injured
2346
Homes
directly hit
2386
Electrical appliances
1083
Grants to children
Tel Aviv Yaffo
422
Ramat Gan
389
Bat Yam
364
Petach Tivka
316
Be’er Sheva
201
Holon
119
Rishon LeZion
84
Bnei Brak
57
Rehovot
37
Haifa
31
Ness Ziona
29
Zavdiel
7
Tamra
5
Azor
4
Beit She'an
3
Breakdown by Municipality
I want to say a huge thank you for your help, both financial and emotional. My house was damaged in Bat Yam on June 15, 2025 and while everyone was talking and promising things, you did. It's not just the money, but the feeling that there is someone out there, a foundation of world Jews, who cares about us. It gave us a lot of hope and strengthened us, including me personally, to know that I am not alone. A big thank you from the bottom of my heart, on behalf of myself and my little children. You are truly amazing, I promise to speak well of you every chance I get! "
Konstantin Solovyov, Bat Yam
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude, on behalf of myself, the city administration, and the residents of Rishon LeZion, to The Jewish Agency and its partners—The Jewish Federations of North America and Keren Hayesod—for your welcome, rapid, and significant mobilization for the city's residents in the wake of Operation 'Rising Lion.' During Operation 'Rising Lion,' the city of Rishon LeZion suffered severe losses in both life and property. The establishment of the 'Rising Lion' Emergency Fund, providing grants of NIS 4,000 per household to eligible residents, is an expression of true mutual responsibility and a deep understanding of the needs on the ground during an emergency. This vital support will assist us in continuing to provide an optimal, humane, and sensitive response to affected families, vulnerable populations, and residents requiring guidance and support during this complex period. I thank you for your partnership, for your willingness to stand by the city of Rishon LeZion in times of difficulty and emergency, and for the public and ethical commitment of The Jewish Agency"
Raz Kinstlich, Mayor of Rishon LeZion
In a situation where our house was hit by an Iranian missile from a direct hit and our building is considered dangerous and forbidden to enter - your help is nothing less than a beacon of hope. Thanks to your donation, we will be able to start a new page by buying electrical products for the rented apartments we move into, restore our sense of security and continue our daily lives in the best possible way. Your donation makes it clear to us that the global Jewish community supports us – not just as a symbol, but as true Zionism and gives us the strength to continue and win the war that was forced upon us on October 7th. Love and appreciation. "
Residents of Asirei Zion St., Petah Tikva
Rural Areas
15
Rights Realization
Days
Parties
8
Rights Realization
Days
South
12
Rights Realization
Days
Meeting the Field
During 2025, the Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror continued to operate in the heart of the communities affected by the events of October 7th. The team members went out to the field – to kibbutzim, cities and cultural communities – with the aim of helping beneficiaries to fulfill their entitlement to rehabilitation grants. Throughout the year, 35 rights realization days were held in Ofakim and Sderot, in Be’eri, Nirim, Hatzerim and Carmei Gat – where members of Kibbutz Nir Oz reside – as well as in Kibbutz Ruhama, which hosts the Kfar Aza community. The Special Populations team took part in a special outreach day in the south produced by 'The Nova Community', where they met festival survivors, guided them through the application processes for the Fund’s grants and experienced moving face-to-face meetings with people they had supported from afar throughout the year. Concurrently, the Fund's leadership, together with the Fund's Chair, embarked on field visits throughout the country – from south to north – to meet with community leaders, local authority representatives, and residents. As part of these visits, we went to numerous communities in order to hear the needs firsthand, understand the shifting challenges, and strengthen local collaborations. These meetings and visits embody the essence of the Fund – a genuine presence in the field, human and professional support, and a sincere partnership in the journey of rehabilitation for the entire Israeli society.
In all field visits and Rights Realization Days, we operate in collaboration with all relevant entities within the local authority – rights realization centers, resilience centers, community managers, and welfare and education departments – aiming to create full synchronization and joint action for the benefit of the beneficiaries.
Hostages and Returnees
The year 2025 was characterized by moving and hopeful moments with the return of all living hostages from captivity – the end of a difficult chapter and the beginning of a new phase in the recovery and rehabilitation process. Throughout the entire period, from the first days after October 7th until the moments of their return home, the Fund for Victims of Terror accompanied the families with sensitivity, listening and determination, out of deep commitment to be there at every stage of the way.
The work with the families of the hostages and returnees is carried out in close coordination with the Hostages and Missing Families Forum and the National Directorate, and with a deep understanding of the emotional, mental and economic complexity that each family experiences. Right from the beginning, the parents of the hostages and their spouses received immediate emergency grants, and later an additional emergency grant was raised. Recognizing the unique needs of the families, the Fund's Public Committee expanded assistance to include brothers, sisters, and other family members up to the age of 40.
With the return of the hostages, a decision was made to provide each returnee with additional rehabilitation assistance directly, beyond the household grants, to assist them in acclimatizing and coping with their personal situation after captivity. Alongside the grants, the Fund operates group treatment programs and support processes for families in various circles, and integrates the families into summer camps, peak days and community activities.
The Fund team will continue to stand by the families and the returnees throughout their rehabilitation and return to routine, driven by a profound sense of mission. At the same time, we will continue to accompany the Gvili family, whose son Ran has not yet returned. We anxiously await his return for a proper and dignified burial in Israel, so that we may look towards the future, rehabilitation, and hope together.
The Jewish Agency Executive, embrace the Horn family brothers, two of whom, returned from captivity
Or Levi, who returned from captivity, with his son at a highlight event for Fund families at the Safari
Fund Chair Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin visiting Hannah Perry, who returned from captivity
We wanted to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the immediate and moving support that enabled the existence of the Hasamba retreat – the young people of hostage families. The togetherness, partnership, and group embrace in such complex moments – are a rare and vital commodity for all of us in this period. The retreat allowed us to strengthen, remember the power of togetherness, and find a moment of quiet and meaning inside the storm. Your support for us is hope, and it is not taken for granted. Thank you very much for everything. "
Mor Korngold, brother of the survivor Tal Shoham
Dear Hagit, thank you for your support in these two years and a month. You were like air to breathe at certain moments. Thank you for everything. "
Words of thanks from Noam Katz, daughter of the late Lior Rudaif. Lior fought with the Nir Yitzhak Rapid Response Team, fell in battle, and his body was taken to Gaza, only to be returned in late October
Within all the evil surrounding us in the last two years, it is very strengthening to meet people and organizations like you, reminding us there is still good in the world. Acting from a place of mutual responsibility and human solidarity. Beyond financial support (which definitely helps greatly with needs we didn't have before and are now required for rehabilitation), there is a strong message here that helps no less. We appreciate it so much and would love for you to pass this to everyone working with you. "
Oded and Einav Mozes, son and daughter-in-law of Gadi Mozes, survivor of captivity
During 2025 - 1,058 Children and Youth Participated
in the Fund's Summer Camps
110
Children and Youth from Families of Hostages and Returnees
78
Children and Youth from the Bedouin Community
340
Children and Youth from Rural Areas
530
Children and Youth from Urban Areas
Summer Camps
The Fund’s summer camps are held during all school holidays: Sukkot, Hanukkah, Passover and summer vacation, as well as days of respite to maintain contact and strengthen the connection between vacations. The camps create an opportunity for respite, experience and enjoyment along with combining elements of developing personal strength and resilience - therapy workshops with animals, performances combined with psychotherapy and processing, art and sports workshops to develop personal resilience and more.
Following the October 7th attack, the Fund's summer camps expanded significantly. During 2025, the Fund provided assistance to a diverse audience, including the Bedouin society, second and third circle of children from the families of hostages and returnees families, children from kibbutzim who have not yet returned to their homes, and children and youth from other urban settlements in the south.
Intervention Programs
Following the October 7th attacks, and in response to the overwhelming demand for assistance, the Fund has prioritized group rehabilitation programs for those affected across different circles of impact. We operate on the premise that individual healing is enhanced by the sense of belonging found in a group setting.
In 2025, as the long-term effects of the war and ongoing trauma crystallized, we significantly scaled up our diverse group interventions.
The Fund operates via several key channels:
1. Support for Rehabilitative Group Processes collaboration with professional teams in cities, regional councils, and communities
2. Support for unique populations such as Nova survivors, the Bedouin and Druze communities, families of hostages and returnees, and more
3. Support for targeted programs and initiatives healing spaces, rehabilitation farms, mind-body programs, and more
In 2025 - 3,218 Participants Took Part In 235 Group Processes
Partnerships
The field of Partnerships at the Fund for Victims of Terror is entrusted with developing, cultivating, and managing the Fund's network of relationships – both with communities and strategic partners abroad, and with civil organizations and entities in Israel. The objective of this field is to strengthen the circles of partnership surrounding the Fund's activities, deepen familiarity with its field work, and create long-term collaborations that promote assistance, resilience, and rehabilitation for victims of terror and their families.
During 2025, 46 meetings were held between beneficiaries and delegations from Israel and abroad. These meetings included an overview and presentation of the Fund's activities by one of the directors, alongside a moving dialogue with a beneficiary who shared their personal story and the impact of the Fund's support on them and their family. Throughout the year, numerous partners within the Jewish Federations of North America, Keren Hayesod communities, and Friends of Israel worldwide were exposed to the Fund's extensive work.
Additionally, 20 field visits were conducted by the Fund's Chair, accompanied by relevant staff members, in various communities across the country – in Shlomi and the Western Galilee, Netivot, Nir Oz, Nahal Oz, Majdal Shams, and other communities. Concurrently, meetings were held to forge new partnerships with institutional entities, including Mifal HaPayis, Bank Hapoalim, and Shamir Medical Center.
In accordance with the Fund's vision and its commitment to initiate, create, and maintain significant collaborations, the Fund takes an active part in forums and joint learning groups – including the Orphans' Organizations Forum led by the Lautman Fund, the NGO Forum addressing Northern challenges, and additional initiatives for promoting knowledge sharing and policy. Furthermore, the connection with 'The Spirit of Israel' deepened during the year, including through a joint program with the Lion of Judah organization.
Every quarter, the Fund convenes the 'Resilience Roundtable' – a partnership forum comprising organizations engaged in mental health and community resilience. The forum convenes each time at the offices of a different organization to foster deeper familiarity. The most recent meeting took place at the President's Residence in the presence of the First Lady and focused on employment challenges following the events of October 7, 2023.
The Fund will continue to build new partnerships and connections in Israel and abroad, understanding that only broad, professional, and values-driven collaborations will enable us to address the numerous and profound challenges stemming from the events of October 7, and to strengthen the resilience of Israeli society together.
Family Circle
'Family Circle' is a new initiative that was established in 2025 as a partnership between the Jewish Agency's Fund for Victims of Terror, the Iron Swords Division of the Ministry of Social Affairs and the National Insurance Funds. The initiative is designed to strengthen the personal and family resilience of relatives in the second and third circles of the October 7 civilian victims, and the families of the kidnapped and returned.
The project is designed to make accessible a wide range of group-therapeutic treatments and processes, coping with trauma and loss with professional and sensitive guidance. During its three years of operation, 155 groups and therapeutic processes for the second and third circles will take place, which will operate through approximately 30 professional entities.
The project includes group treatments that combine body and mind work, creative arts therapy, animal therapy, sports and movement, alongside dynamic developments of discourse and group processing, as well as therapeutic frameworks that focus on the nuclear family as a unique group for joint processes.
In 2025 - 24 Groups Were Established with 303 Participants
A Joint Initiative for Second and Third Circle Families
Family Circle Implementing Partners
Resilience Award
For the first time in Israel, at the initiative of the Fund for Victims of Terror, in partnership with the Community Stress Prevention Center and Keren Hayesod, a special ceremony was held to present the 'Children and Youth Resilience Award', honoring the memory of Ofir Libstein, head of the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council, and his son Nitzan, who were both killed on October 7th. At the ceremony, the Resilience Award was awarded to 26 children and youth from across the country for their inspiring actions during the war. The professional committee that selected the winners included Vered Libstein, the mother of Nitzan z"l and the widow of Ofir z"l; Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin, Chair of the Fund for Victims of Terror of the Jewish Agency; Prof. Molly Lahad, founder and president of the Community Stress Prevention Center; Edna Weinstock-Gabay, CEO of Keren Hayesod; and Yoram Shliar, Chairman of the Israeli Psychologists Association and member of the Community Stress Prevention Center's Public Council. The winners, young people aged 6-18, were selected from a multitude of inspiring stories submitted by the general public. Half of them received the 'Resilience Award' accompanied by a personal scholarship, and half received a Citation of Merit for extraordinary action. Additionally, three groups of youth who operated together received a joint Certificate of Appreciation.
Fund Survey 2025
This is the second year that the Jewish Agency’s Fund for Victims of Terror has initiated and led a comprehensive survey to examine the situation of communities affected by the events of October 7th and the 'Iron Swords' War. The survey, conducted by the Maagar Mochot Institute, examined various aspects of personal and community resilience, health and mental health, employment and education, among residents of the Gaza Envelope and the northern confrontation line – including the fund’s beneficiaries.
The survey is an important step in understanding the situation of the families and communities with whom the Fund works and allows for the establishment of accurate and data-based assistance policies for the coming year.
The survey findings indicate widespread damage to the sense of economic and employment stability of residents in affected areas
The unemployment rate has almost doubled - from 13% before October 7 to 28% today
26% of workers reported having to change occupation or workplace following events; among Gaza Envelope residents, the figure is higher (32%)
74% of those who changed occupation in the Gaza Envelope reported the reason is their mental state
44% Among those not currently employed, are looking for work
47% of respondents expressed a desire to receive assistance in the field of employment – mainly from the state (33%)
Facing Forward
After two years of establishing and expanding our activities following the events of the October 7th attacks, we will continue in 2026 to act vigorously, with a systemic and future-looking view to strengthen the aid, rehabilitation, and resilience array for terror victims in Israel and the Diaspora. In the coming year, the Fund will continue to lead the field of rights realization and service accessibility for beneficiaries, while constantly improving procedures, expanding national deployment, and ensuring quick, quality, and equal response to all Fund eligibles.
At the same time, the Fund will deepen partnerships and inter-organizational interfaces, and continue developing collaborations with government ministries, local authorities, and civil organizations – to expand responses and strengthen the support network in affected communities. The Fund will work to leverage accumulated experience and knowledge to create new collaborations, develop joint responses, and pool cross-sector resources that will strengthen social resilience in the long term.
Meanwhile, the Fund will continue to invest in nurturing the professional team, strengthening the sense of meaning and mission of its employees, and developing organizational capabilities in preparation for the challenges of the coming year. The Fund is moving towards 2026 with deep commitment, faith, and hope – to continue to build together a broad, professional, and human support network that will ensure that every victim, family, and community is given the sensitive, accurate, and appropriate response they need, as part of strengthening the resilience of Israeli society as a whole.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our global partners:
The Jewish Federations of North America, Keren Hayesod, UIA Canada, The Spirit of Israel, and hundreds of foundations and private donors in Israel and abroad. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your unwavering belief in the Fund's mission
Public Committee Members
Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin
Chairperson,
The Fund for Victims of Terror, The Jewish Agency for Israel
Becky Caspi
CEO of JFNA
Edna Weinstock-Gabay
CEO of Keren Hayesod
Yarona Shalom
Deputy Director General, National Insurance Institute
Ofer Bavly
Director General, Israel Office,
Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago (JUF)
Itzik Shmuli
Director General, Israel Office, UJA-Federation of New York
Sarah Mali
Director General, Jewish Federations of Canada-UIA Israel
Paul Rosenberg
Director of Projects Division, Keren Hayesod
Dr. Moshe Farchi
Public Representative, Trauma Expert,
Tel-Hai College
Yaron Rokman
Business Sector Representative, CEO, Ashtrom Properties
Keren Green
Head of Kadima-Zoran
Local Council
Danyelle Neuman
Chief Development Officer at The Jewish Agency for Israel
Ruthi Shenfeld
CEO, Youth Futures
Dana Zaks
Director, Identity and Connection to the Jewish People Unit, The Jewish Agency for Israel
Michal Levi-Abromovitch
Committee Legal Advisor
Riki August-Cohen
Committee Treasurer
The Fund's team at a Hanukkah gathering, December 2025
