The lives of thousands of women in Israel have been dramatically affected by the severe injuries their loved ones sustained on the battlefield during the Iron Swords War.

All too often, the challenges faced by the spouses of injured soldiers remain out of the spotlight – despite the fact that they deal with complex, layered struggles on a daily basis.

The wives of wounded soldiers shoulder enormous responsibilities:  they accompany their partners through physical and medical rehabilitation, manage the household alone, care for the children, and cope with the emotional difficulties brought on by the injury.

At the same time, they often strive to maintain their professional careers to avoid financial collapse. To meet these challenges, they must summon extraordinary physical, emotional, and financial resources.

Recognizing the unique needs of these women, the “Lifros Kanaf” organization created the “Le’tzidech” (“By Your Side”) program – an initiative that offers these brave women a supportive framework and tools to help them grow through the personal crisis they are experiencing.

As part of the program, support groups for women – all partners of injured men – have been established in several locations across the country.

These groups undergo a six-month group process, during which strong bonds are formed between women facing similar challenges and living in the same geographical area.

The sense of community that develops continues beyond the group meetings, providing an ongoing network of support. During the program, each group initiates a social project designed to serve the entire population of women whose partners were wounded throughout Israel.

These initiatives serve a dual purpose: on one hand, they give participants an outlet for creative expression, inspiration, a sense of meaning and self-worth; on the other hand, they offer support to women who are not directly participating in the program.In addition to the group activities, each participant receives individualized, professional support tailored to her needs – such as legal rights advocacy, financial counseling, parenting support, career guidance, and more.

 

As of July 2025, 65 women have completed the first cycle of the program, describing it as a transformative experience. They speak of the strength they’ve gained to face daily life — simply from knowing they are not alone, and that someone stands beside them, helping them navigate this complex journey.

In light of the overwhelmingly positive feedback and the high demand to join the program, our goal is to expand its reach and offer 'Le'tzidech' to every woman whose partner was wounded and who wishes to receive the support it provides.