Israel approves $20M rehabilitation plan for October 7 survivors

The plan establishes a centralized support system through the Ministry of Social Affairs to help survivors access government services and coordinate care.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

Israel’s government on Sunday approved an NIS 60 million ($20 million) plan to extend rehabilitation and support services through 2028 for survivors of the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel.

The program aims to ensure continued medical, psychological, social, and employment assistance as survivors in the Gaza-border communities shift from the emergency response phase into long-term recovery.

According to government data, about 3,600 survivors of the Nova music festival targeted during the October 7 massacre have been officially recognized as victims of hostilities.

Of all the locations attacked by Hamas on October 7, Nova’s death toll of 364 was the highest.

The plan establishes a centralized support system through the Ministry of Social Affairs to help survivors access government services and coordinate care.

It also expands assistance for families, increases medical and mental health services, develops specialized programs to prevent and treat substance abuse, and improves access to emergency psychological care.

The initiative also calls for tailored vocational rehabilitation and employment programs through the Ministry of Labor, the Employment Service and the National Insurance Institute, alongside a digital platform to coordinate services and monitor survivors’ needs.