Friends of the IDF in the US: Emergency Campaign Raises Millions for Soldiers

In the wake of the recent outbreak of conflict in the State of Israel, the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) in the United States launched an extraordinary emergency campaign. The organization, which is the only one in the United States officially working directly with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), swiftly rallied support and funds to aid the soldiers facing unprecedented challenges on the front lines.

Major General Nadav Padan, former commander of Central Command and the director of FIDF in the USA, stated, "Their job is to protect Israel. It's our job to protect them."

In a remarkable response to the call for aid, FIDF managed to raise approximately 130 million NIS (New Israeli Shekels) within just 15 days. The funds were directed towards providing essential emergency aid to the IDF through the Association for the Soldier. This significant financial support came from various quarters, including Jewish communities, American companies, organizations, Christian communities, and hundreds of thousands of compassionate Americans who rallied to help the IDF and Israel.

The generous donations enabled the procurement of critical life-saving equipment and supplies, including 17 field hospitals complete with operating rooms, 52 military ambulances dedicated to evacuating soldiers and civilians in emergencies, 6 intensive care ambulances, 6 regular ambulances, hygiene kits, underwear, and towels for soldiers and female soldiers called to serve without notice. Additionally, the organization supplied treatment packages for wounded soldiers and bereaved families, life-saving medical supplies, and much more.

FIDF's mission goes beyond material aid. The organization also offers unwavering support to the families of fallen and wounded IDF soldiers. Its volunteers visit hundreds of soldiers hospitalized across the country, provide comfort to the bereaved, and visit assembly areas of various battalions.

Major General Nadav Padan emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying, "Since October 7, the State of Israel has been facing a horrific and unprecedented struggle. This is our hour of truth to stand beside and behind the IDF and its soldiers, and quickly give the necessary assistance and support."

FIDF, established 42 years ago and operating in 25 branches across the United States, consistently raises over 100 million dollars annually to support IDF soldiers. This aid covers a wide range of welfare initiatives, including educational and cultural activities for soldiers, the IMPACT scholarship program, financial assistance for soldiers from low-income families, support for bereaved families, and special care for lone soldiers. FIDF also provides assistance to wounded soldiers and finances operational vacation weeks for combat units, as well as the renovation and construction of welfare buildings.

In these trying times, the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces in the USA continues to show unwavering dedication to its mission by mobilizing resources to support the IDF and its soldiers, ensuring they receive the crucial assistance and care they need during this challenging period.