The Friends of the IDF (FIDF)-Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers Program, in collaboration with the Mofet Unit of the IDF Manpower Directorate, and the Association for Israel’s Soldiers hosted the first Yom Siddurim (Errands Day) for lone soldiers on Thursday since the start of the Israel-Hamas War. The event was attended by over 4,000 lone soldiers from 70 countries.
On Yom Siddurim, lone soldiers can use the services of dozens of government offices and organizations to handle personal tasks. Services available to the attendees included a mobile Population and Immigration Authority office, where foreign-born lone soldiers could obtain their Israeli biometric ID cards and passports.
The Transportation Ministry was also in attendance, offering conversions of foreign driver’s licenses and driving tests. Hundreds of new Israeli licenses were issued at the event.
“The young men and women who make Aliyah, and are required to serve in the IDF, embody an extraordinary commitment to the State of Israel, driven by a strong Zionist spirit and a deep desire to contribute to our nation,” said Co-Founders of Nefesh B’Nefesh, Tony Gelbart and Rabbi Yehoshua Fass. “This year’s Yom Siddurim, is a powerful reminder of our responsibility to support these new Olim, provide for their needs, and demonstrate our gratitude for their ongoing service to the Jewish nation.”
“This year’s Yom Siddurim is a powerful reminder of our responsibility to support these new Olim, provide for their needs, and demonstrate our gratitude for their ongoing service to the Jewish nation.”
The Aliyah and Integration Ministry, National Insurance Institute, several foreign embassies, the IDF Technology and Logistics Corps, and many other organizations were also present, offering services such as assistance with bureaucratic matters, housing, employment, educational degree recognition, and legal guidance.
FIDF aims to let lone soldiers know they are never alone
CEO of FIDF, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan, described the event as “one of the many ways FIDF shows our deep appreciation and support for the young men and women who volunteer to serve in the IDF.”
He added that the FIDF's goal is “to ensure [lone soldiers] know they are never alone."
"Through comprehensive support that includes financial assistance, housing, flights home, community events, and mental health support, FIDF is committed to easing their experience so they can focus fully on their vital mission of protecting the State of Israel.”
Over 7,000 Lone Soldiers, both from within Israel and from overseas, are required to draft into the IDF each year. This includes over 3,700 new immigrant soldiers from around the world and more than 4,000 native-born Israelis who serve without the support of immediate family.