Originally published by https://thej.ca/.
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) distributed more than $132 million in 2025 to support Israel Defense Forces soldiers, veterans and their families, marking the largest annual distribution in the organization’s 44 year history, according to official figures released by the nonprofit.
The record funding reflects expanded efforts to address the physical, mental and long term needs of Israel’s military personnel following ongoing security challenges since October 2023. FIDF works in coordination with the IDF and Israel’s Ministry of Defense to fund programs that strengthen soldier resilience, recovery and reintegration.
The organization stated that its funding supports a broad range of humanitarian initiatives, including mental health services, rehabilitation, education, financial aid and assistance to bereaved families and Lone Soldiers.
Mental health programs were among the top priorities in 2025. FIDF expanded partnerships with major medical institutions, including Sheba Medical Center, the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization and Cohen Veterans Network, enabling the opening of ten mental health clinics across Israel. These clinics provide early detection, treatment and long term care for soldiers coping with combat related trauma and psychological stress.
Construction also began on the FIDF National Mental Health and Resilience Center, which will become the first dedicated treatment campus in Israel specifically designed to support active duty soldiers’ mental health needs. The center is being developed in collaboration with Israel’s Ministry of Defense.
FIDF also worked with organizations such as Nefesh B’Nefesh and Nevut to deliver specialized mental health support for Lone Soldiers, including services for those returning to the United States after completing their military service.
Support for wounded soldiers represented another major area of funding. FIDF allocated resources to rehabilitation programs, prosthetic care, financial assistance and medical treatment. A new grant was also awarded to Brothers For Life, an organization founded by wounded Israeli veterans, to expand medical care, peer support and rehabilitation services.
Well being and morale programs received significant funding as well. These initiatives, developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense and the Association for Israel’s Soldiers, provide financial assistance, counseling, housing support and recreational services for soldiers and their families.
Educational initiatives were also expanded. These programs include scholarships, career development training, cyber and technology education and mentorship opportunities to help veterans transition successfully to civilian life.
FIDF Chief Executive Officer Nadav Padan emphasized the importance of supporting soldiers beyond their combat duties.
“Wars are not won by weapons alone, they are won by the humans wearing the uniform and the families who support them,” Padan said in an official statement. “Every soldier faces fatigue, trauma and strain long before and long after their duties are fulfilled. Supporting their mental, emotional and physical well being is not just charity, it is essential to Israel’s security.”
Padan also noted that donor support increased significantly in response to the growing needs of soldiers and their families.
“We see this momentum continuing into the new year because our donors understand that Israel’s heroes and their families have long term needs that require ongoing care,” he said. “We will be there for them for the long haul.”
FIDF announced plans to further expand its programs in 2026. These initiatives include new rehabilitation centers, expanded mental health services, support programs for reservists and their families and development of specialized treatment facilities for traumatic brain injuries.
Additional mental health clinics are planned in northern Israel and other regions. The organization will also continue developing its national mental health and resilience center.
Padan said these efforts reflect a long term commitment to Israel’s military personnel and their families.
“Every soldier, every veteran and every family represents a life committed to Israel’s defense,” he said. “Our responsibility is to ensure their service is honored with tangible support, immediate care and long term programs that strengthen individuals, units and the nation.”
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, founded in 1981, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting IDF soldiers and veterans through education, financial aid, mental health services and rehabilitation programs. The organization operates globally and works with donors and partner institutions to ensure that those who serve Israel receive comprehensive care.
The record distribution underscores the growing importance of humanitarian and recovery programs as Israel continues to address the long-term effects of military service on its soldiers and their families.
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