Israel at War: What Funders Need to Know

Dear friends, colleagues, and partners,

As we write this, Israel is being attacked by massive barrages of ballistic missiles from Iran. As opposed to Israel’s surgical, targeted strikes on objectives that represent an existential danger to the state, the Iranian regime is firing indiscriminately at civilian areas. So far, there have been three deaths to deplore, dozens of injuries, and property damage. As horrific as this is, it’s important to bear in mind that Israel has the best multi-layered missile defense in the world; over 90% of the rockets have been intercepted and no vital infrastructure has been hit.

The entire JFN family stands unequivocally with our Israeli brethren at this trying time. As always, in critical situations, we strive to guide our members and provide information as they utilize the power of philanthropy for mitigation, relief, and reconstruction.

The situation is fluid and evolving as we speak – a lot will depend on the duration and severity of the crisis. However, we want to share some information and suggest initial considerations for funders.

JFN has reactivated its emergency consultations with the IDF Home Front Command and the relevant authorities in the government and civil society. These mechanisms were established in the aftermath of October 7^th and will provide us with timely information about the needs and priorities on the ground. 

• The IDF estimates that the crisis may last for weeks, so it’s important to “pace” any philanthropic response and be alert as needs emerge as the situation evolves.

• So far, the attacks have taken place over the weekend. Because of that, the economic disruption was minor. As of tomorrow, Israel will operate “vital economic activity” only, which will have a significant impact on the country’s economy. Financially, many families are already stretched thin given the long reserve call-up periods (and the expansion of the call-up in the last few days). The reduction of economic activity may impact them further and may topple some over the financial edge.

• As in every crisis, vulnerable populations are at increased risk. People with disabilities, the elderly, and the sick have trouble evacuating, running to shelters, understanding the instructions of the Home Front Command, and overcoming the stress of the situation. It’s important to support organizations that take care of those populations.

• As funders, we need to recognize that our grantees in Israel are under immense pressure – they are performing their life-sustaining work while also rushing to shelters and caring for their families. Checking on them, reassuring them of our support, and providing any immediate help that may be needed can be very valuable.

• So far, no mass evacuations have been required, but it’d be wise to pay attention to the lessons learned after Oct 7^th. We know that most basic services for evacuees in 2023/24 were conducted by our grantees and not the central government.

• In many cases since October 7^th, the local authorities in Israel have proven to have a much better understanding of the needs on the ground than the central government. If you have a relationship with municipalities, it’s a good idea to check on them and start looking for emerging needs.

• In these cases, trauma and mental health are big concerns – especially for children and elderly people. These attacks add to the cumulative stress of the last two years. Again, organizations are primed to respond after the experience of the last two years, but it’s useful to check with partners in that field about how they are responding to this crisis.

Our staff in Israel is, yet again, doing vital work while dealing with their own difficulties – partners and spouses in reserve duty, elderly parents, and children at home. Our gratitude and admiration for them is boundless.

We will keep you informed about needs as they emerge, but as always, our biggest asset is our network and our capacity to connect between funders. If you hear of specific needs, or you want to share what you’re doing with the network, please don’t hesitate to write to me, Sigal, or any member of the JFN staff. If you need tailored support and advice to craft your philanthropic response, we have the resources to help.

In the meantime, join us in prayer and solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel.

Na’avor gam et ze! (We will overcome this too!)

Andres and Sigal

Andrés Spokoiny
President and CEO
Jewish Funders Network

Sigal Yaniv Feller
Executive Director, JFN Israel
Jewish Funders Network