July 23, 2025: New York, NY — In times of adversity, the smallest acts of kindness can yield the greatest impact. As a trusted name in philanthropy, Jewish National Fund-USA and its partners (donors) are proud to show they care for the members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), first responders, and their families through two meaningful initiatives: Israel Support Packages and Operation Hug.
Through the organization’s Israel Support Packages initiative, thoughtfully curated products sourced directly from small Israeli businesses in the country’s North and South—many of which are members of Jewish National Fund-USA’s Small Business Association are gifted to Israelis in uniform and their families. From artisanal snacks to handcrafted goods, these items embody the spirit of resilience and Zionist pride. Every box not only uplifts a hero on the frontlines—it sustains a local shop owner, tradesperson, or artisan working to bolster Israel’s economy during these challenging times.
“Our brave soldiers, firefighters, medics, and emergency workers are not just defending Israel—they’re protecting the soul of our homeland and ensuring our future,” said Jewish National Fund-USA President, Deb Lust Zaluda. “By sending an Israel Support Package, you’re conveying a powerful message: You are not alone. Am Yisrael stands with you.”
Supporters don’t need to know the recipients personally; however, they can include a message in English that will be translated into Hebrew and placed with the package. Whether it's a pilot stationed in the South or a first responder in the North, your contribution ensures they feel the encouragement of an entire global community behind them.
The initiative is part of Jewish National Fund-USA’s broader Israel Resilience Campaign, where proceeds support critical infrastructure, therapeutic services, and economic support in Israel’s most vulnerable communities.
Jewish National Fund-USA Support Packages
Jewish National Fund-USA is also proud to support Operation Hug – the brainchild of Nefesh B’Nefesh and a first-of-its-kind program – that provides a round-trip airline ticket for one parent of any lone soldier serving in an active combat unit, from anywhere in the world to visit their child in Israel (parents are asked to make a nominal contribution toward the airfare).
For many of Israel’s 5,000 lone soldiers, the battlefield is not only dangerous but also isolating. The emotional burden becomes overwhelming without family nearby to offer comfort or reassurance. Operation Hug addresses these needs with action. Since it started in late 2023, the initiative has reunited over 1,200 families from more than 60 countries, each reunion providing a moment of healing and humanity amid the chaos.
Jewish National Fund-USA Nefesh B’Nefesh Task Force Chair, Deborah Riegel, said, “Operation Hug embodies the very soul of what Jewish National Fund-USA stands for—ensuring that every individual who defends our homeland feels the figurative embrace of a grateful people, and more importantly, the literal embrace of family.”
Jewish National Fund-USA continues to attain the highest possible rating by the leading charity watchdog, Charity Navigator. The Better Business Bureau also recommends the organization as a trustworthy philanthropy.
With a $3,600 gift, you can sponsor an Operation Hug reunion. For more information, visit jnf.org/nefesh, call 800.JNF.0099, or email [email protected]. To send an Israel Support Package, visit jnf.org/store.
