The Jerusalem Post - The Jerusalem Post Magazine

Nefesh B’Nefesh - FIDF Lone Soldiers Program

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With the full support of the IDF and in cooperatio­n with the Friends of the IDF (FIDF), the Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers Program was establishe­d to assist and support the brave young men and women who choose to serve in the IDF, regardless of their country of origin. The program provides a holistic approach to supporting every lone soldier as they work toward a successful life as an oleh, IDF soldier, and Israeli citizen.

There are currently 3,000 lone soldiers serving in a range of positions in the army without close family living in Israel. For these idealistic soldiers, it is a time that is often accompanie­d by difficulti­es in becoming acclimated to military service and an independen­t lifestyle in Israel, although it is most certainly an empowering experience.

The goal of the program is to support these lone soldiers with all the resources and guidance necessary for a successful IDF service and post-army life in Israel.

The time before a lone soldier’s draft is a critical time for assistance with bureaucrac­y. Prior to making aliya, the lone soldiers Program offers seminars and personal meetings that address key aliya and IDF topics. Additional­ly, there is a call center available to answer additional questions.

One of the most meaningful days for any IDF soldier is the draft day. The Lone Soldiers Program staff members travel to all five draft centers across the country to offer support and guidance on this momentous day, which would normally be attended by close family.

In essence, the FIDF/NBN Lone Soldiers Program is the address for every lone soldier oleh to be provided with resources, support and guidance for a successful IDF service and life in Israel. All of its activities are complement­ary to the IDF’s care of its lone soldiers.

For more info: www.nbn.org.il/lsp

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