Osot Hayil
Osot Hayil is the first initiative of its kind in Israel, providing a comprehensive community-based, emotional, and professional support network for Haredi women - mothers, wives, and sisters of family members serving in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The initiative is founded on the understanding that the family support system is an essential component of the success of Haredi soldiers' military service and their integration into Israeli society.
Haredi women and mothers whose children serve in the IDF - whether in regular service, career service or the reserves - often find themselves facing a challenging reality. By stepping outside the social norms of their communities, they may experience loneliness, a lack of community support, and an absence of services tailored to their unique needs. “I really needed this opportunity to take a breath. Amid all the tension and worry, I finally felt that someone was seeing us, too,” shares one of the participants.
Osot Hayil was established in response to a need that emerged from the field during the war, with the aim of creating a network of emotional, social and community support for these women. Its work focuses on strengthening a sense of belonging, fostering connection to heritage and community, providing support, and nurturing pride.
The community offers workshops, emotional processing circles, support groups, appreciation events, heritage tours, personal guidance, and more.
Since its establishment, the community has grown to include 1,000 women, and its work has received widespread public and institutional recognition. This includes the “Women of Valor” award from the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, a recognition meeting with First Lady Michal Herzog, representation before the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and extensive media coverage.
