Day of Appreciation For Israel’s Wounded Soldiers & Victims of Terror

Thursday, November 30, 2023

“The Lord builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Psalm 147:2-3

Dear friend,

Today is Israel’s National Day of Appreciation for Israel’s Wounded Soldiers and Terror Victims. And now more than ever, this day is extremely significant as Israel is in the midst of a war. Thousands are recent victims of terror, hundreds of Israelis are held hostage, and many soldiers have been wounded. As the war continues, it is so important to take a moment to show our appreciation and love for the ones who have been wounded as they have defended this nation and for those who are victims of the horrific terrorism.

The annual day of appreciation for the wounded soldiers and victims of hostilities in Israel began as a local initiative of a youth movement in the southern region of Israel. In July 2014, the Israeli government decided to establish an official day of recognition to express society's moral duty of appreciation towards the wounded and injured. They were the ones who carried in their bodies and souls the public price of us all.

On November 29, 1947, the United Nations Assembly decided to end the British mandate and establish the State of Israel. The choice of this date for the National Day of Appreciation symbolizes the connection between the circumstances of the injuries of the victims and the establishment of Israel.

In February 1996, after one of the severe terror attacks in Jerusalem, Vision for Israel started helping dozens of families who were victims of hostilities. With heavy hearts, we discovered that four schoolmates of our eldest daughter were killed in these attacks. At Vision for Israel, we have loved and embraced the victims of hostilities since the beginning of our operation. We continue to make it a priority to support and help those and their families who were victims of terror.

These wounded soldiers and the victims of hostilities face a wide variety of disabilities and challenges in their daily lives, both physically and mentally. At any time and any opportunity, VFI is committed to supporting victims. We have donated millions of shekels to finance activities for the welfare of victims, as well as individual support for thousands of families.

Leading up to October 7th, 2023, Israel had about 100,000 wounded Israeli citizens from war and terror attacks. However, since the October 7th massacre, devastatingly thousands of Israelis were added to this number.

As the recent war unfolds, VFI has been readily supplying the victims and their families with food baskets, clothes, basic needs, and more. We are also planning on sponsoring therapy sessions for those dealing with PTSD.

On this national day of appreciation, we encourage you to take time to remember the victims, the wounded soldiers, and their families. Join us in showing love and appreciation to these brave Israelis and their families by donating to VFI today!