Registered Israeli Non-Profit Organization 580040327
In 1974, a group of Israeli paratroopers decided that the families of the men who did not come home would not be left to manage alone. Fifty years later they are still showing up — for the widows, and for children who now have children of their own.
One gift, straight to the families
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Donate on JGiveAmerican donors give through PEF Israel Endowment Funds, a 501(c)(3) public charity. Your gift is tax-deductible in the US.
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Why the fund exists
Every paratrooper needs to know one thing: that if the worst should happen, his wife and children will not be left alone.
For generations, Israel's paratroopers have stood on the front lines — defending the people of Israel, the Land of Israel, and the home God promised to His people. Even now, as the war continues, they are still fighting on many fronts, leaving behind wives, children, and families to step forward and protect the nation.
That is why the Paratroopers Families Fund exists — known in Hebrew as "Dad's Friends." For more than 50 years it has provided long-term, ongoing support for the widows and orphans of fallen paratroopers. Not one-time help, but a standing commitment: a personal liaison from the brigade for every family, retreats and activities throughout the year, and guidance for children from childhood into their own military service — and even beyond.
This is not a memorial organization. It is an organization of life, responsibility, love, and continued care for those left behind. And your help is needed now.
Everyone who serves in this fund is a volunteer. No one draws a salary. Your donation helps continue real, personal support for a child who lost his father, and for a widow carrying the home alone — a practical way to stand with Israel, with her soldiers, and with the widows and orphans of those who gave their lives for this land.
Help the fund continue giving these widows and children community, comfort, hope, and support — not just today, but for years to come.
Donate now to the Paratroopers Families FundWhat it means in practice
The foundation covers the families of paratroopers killed in regular and reserve service, and — since the Tyre disaster — the families of Shin Bet personnel as well. Three things happen for every one of them.
Each family is assigned a liaison from the brigade — a man who served, who knows the unit, and who answers the phone. Not an intake line, not a case number.
Widows and children travel as a group, four days at a time, three times a year. The programme is built around heritage, the country itself, and simply being looked after for a while.
A standing corps of guides walks each child through childhood into their own military service — and stays with them after it. The mothers' trips have their own permanent team, for the same reason.
Where the money goes
The foundation is run by an elected board with standing committees for family liaison, brigade liaison, and audit. Beyond modest institutional support, it is funded entirely by members and supporters — monthly standing orders and one-time gifts.
Get in touch
Write to us and a member of the foundation will answer. We read everything.
