NEW YORK – Jewish Federations Mobilize Relief Efforts Following End of Israel-Iran War
Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) has allocated $10 million in Israel Emergency Funds to assist civilians and communities recovering from the recent missile war launched by Iran.
Though the war has ended, the humanitarian and infrastructural challenges remain significant. The funds are being distributed to 19 partner organizations providing essential services, including trauma care, emergency housing, support for the elderly, and bomb shelter upgrades.
โOnce again, Israel was forced to defend itself against a ruthless aggressor. And once again, Jewish Federations stepped up to help Israeli families recover and rebuild,โ said Jeff Schoenfeld, incoming Vice Chair of JFNAโs board of trustees. โWe want Israelis to know the North American Jewish community stands firmly with them.โ
The largest disbursements, $2 million each, were directed to the Jewish Agency for Israelโs Rising Lion Fund and to bolster Israeli hospital infrastructure. The Rising Lion Fund aids bereaved families, individuals with life-altering injuries, and residents whose homes were destroyed during the attacks. Hospitals, including Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, which sustained direct missile damage, will receive new equipment and emergency staff funding.
The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee received $1.5 million for emergency worker deployment, local first aid equipment, and social services for elderly residents in hard-hit municipalities.
Jewish Federations report that nearly 15,000 homes were damaged during the war, and over 9,000 civilians were temporarily displaced. Many evacuees continue to live in hotels and temporary accommodations. Relief efforts will focus on bridging gaps in housing and meeting basic needs like food, water, and medical care.
To address the shelter crisis, affecting an estimated 2.6 million Israelis without access to approved protection, local authorities opened parking structures, schools, and public facilities. JFNA partners are supplying mattresses, food, fans, and childrenโs games to support civilians sheltering underground.
The needs of vulnerable populations, including seniors and people with disabilities, have also intensified. Federation funds are helping expand food deliveries, remote wellness checks, and relocation services for individuals without access to safe rooms.
Mental health support remains a priority. Emotional support hotlines received more than 4,700 calls during one week of the conflict. Federations are supporting emergency psychological services, mobile trauma units, and counseling for first responders.
A portion of the funds will support workforce continuity in essential sectors. With security guards, delivery drivers, and supermarket staff under strain, JFNA has partnered with Israelโs Ministry of Economy to recruit and place emergency temporary workers.
โThis is a critical moment for recovery,โ said Schoenfeld. โEven after the sirens have stopped, the effects of this war will be felt for months. We are committed to seeing Israel through this difficult chapter.โ
This article is based on verified information from the Jewish Federations of North America, JDC, and public statements by Israeli medical and security institutions.