Three years, hundreds of millions: JFNA report details Diaspora impact on post-Oct. 7 Israel
The funds were distributed to multiple causes, including medical and trauma relief, economic relief, community resilience, and education-related programs.
In the aftermath of the October 7 attacks and subsequent conflict, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) released a report outlining how $908 million in donations were directed to support Israel. The funds were dispersed through four key focus areas: emergency services, medical aid, economic assistance, and building community resilience.
This allocation occurred over a three-year period, with $252 million apportioned through the Israel Emergency Response Committee, concluding its operations in 2025. The remaining funds were distributed individually by the federations themselves.
The funds were channeled through partnerships with entities like the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Rebecca Caspi, JFNA's Israel office director-general, emphasized the longstanding support Jewish Federations have provided to Israel, which intensified into an emergency response after the attacks.
The report highlights the distribution of over $47 million for immediate relief, including essential items for displaced families such as clothing, meals, hygiene supplies, and safe shelter.
Additionally, the emergency fund addressed medical needs, contributing over $27 million to upgrade ambulances into mobile ICU units and providing hospitals with life-saving equipment to function amidst constant missile attacks. Psychological trauma support received $23.2 million, with initiatives ranging from traditional therapies to unconventional programs like surfing therapy and art therapy.
Special funding was also allocated to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly, Holocaust survivors, Arabic speakers, and new immigrants. Victims of terror and war were provided with over $30.9 million in aid, covering relocation costs, counseling, and memorial arrangements.
Moreover, over $4.5 million was dedicated to reservists and their families whose lives were frequently disrupted by call-ups. The report also highlighted $19 million invested in education to support students and at-risk youth impacted by the crisis.
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