"A person must be careful with orphans and widows, for their spirits are lowly, and their souls are deeply humbled."
(Maimonides, Mishneh Torah, Hilchot De’ot 6:10)
Following the tragedies of October 7 and the ongoing “Swords of Iron” war, more than 300 women have joined Israel’s circle of bereavement. In conversations with widows and their families, a common picture emerges: profound grief intertwined with confusion, loss of stability, anxiety about the future, and difficulty accepting or asking for assistance. Yet many express deep appreciation for the support they receive—conversations that help them focus, identify challenges, and begin imagining paths toward rebuilding their lives.
The widows come from diverse backgrounds, but their needs echo one another: childcare support, household management, emotional help, memory preservation for their children, and guidance in navigating daily life alone. Many gave birth after their husbands fell; some are mothers to newborns, others to large families. Their husbands were soldiers, educators, commanders, medics, and young fathers—men remembered for their courage, leadership, Torah study, and devotion to family and country. Each story illustrates both personal heartbreak and the collective loss felt across the nation.
In response, the Widows Project provides year-round, individualized support—holiday gifts, home maintenance assistance (in partnership with Engineers Without Borders), and access to performances and strengthening events. In collaboration with Orot Israel College, students and alumni “adopt” orphans through mentorship, learning, and emotional-educational guidance. The program continues to expand, matching families with tailored resources and professional support to help restore stability, dignity, and hope.