HaOgen-The Anchor- for Drafted Families, Rishon LeTsion.

After the horrific attacks of October 7, the IDF called up over 300,000 reserve soldiers, the largest reserve call-up in its history. These reservists come from diverse backgrounds, but many share one commonality: they left behind families, mostly women and young children. These “miluim” (reservist) families who have now been without their father (and in some cases, mothers), since October 7, must manage their households and all of their daily duties, alone, without practical or emotional support of their spouse during these challenging times. In addition, they are often filled with great anxiety, as their spouses are in combat roles, risking their lives. ​ While Israel has been slowly working to rebuild from the trauma and upheaval of October 7, for these families the challenges have essentially remained the same – if anything, these challenges have increased, as the passage of time in itself adds a heavy burden. ​ So long as Israel remains on the battlefield, we must support the homefront. ​ The “Ogen עוגן” (anchor) is a nationwide volunteer-only network which was quickly established after October 7. Today, over 20,000 volunteers currently assist nearly 20,000 “miluim” spouses and children from over 240 cities and towns (and the number continues to grow), providing both practical and emotional support. ​ At the Ogen for Drafted Families, we have identified two main needs: meals and babysitting. We therefore are looking to raise funds for Shabbat/midweek meals, and to create a fund to pay babysitters.