Two years on, Israel Friends expands trauma recovery and battlefield aid

In mental health care, Israel Friends has provided more than 40,000 hours of therapy through its Healthy Mind teletherapy program, Matanya Farm, and mental health retreats.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

Two years after the October 7, 2023, terror attacks in Israel, the nonprofit organization Israel Friends has delivered more than $55 million in aid, technology, and trauma care to defenders and survivors, according to its recently released two-year impact report.

Founded in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, Israel Friends mobilized within 24 hours, bringing together entrepreneurs, logistics experts, and global partners to deliver critical supplies to front-line responders and affected civilians.

Over the past two years, the organization has expanded its work to include advanced battlefield technology, psychiatric care, and long-term mental health programs.

Kyle Blank, executive director of Israel Friends, said the organization has focused on “rapid response and sustained recovery,” emphasizing that its mission is both practical and humanitarian.

“Every IFAK [individual first aid kit], every drone, every hour of therapy represents a life saved, a family restored, a future rebuilt,” Blank said.

The report highlights more than 15,000 first aid kits delivered to front-line responders; 25,000 3D-printed components supplied to sustain security operations; over 10,000 drones and surveillance systems deployed; and 350,000 hot meals provided to soldiers and families.

In mental health care, Israel Friends has provided more than 40,000 hours of therapy through its Healthy Mind teletherapy program, Matanya Farm, and mental health retreats.

Matanya Farm, a therapeutic farm in Northern Israel for PTSD recovery, has treated over 5,500 survivors since opening in May 2024.

In October 2025, it received formal approval from Israel’s Ministry of Defense to provide treatment to soldiers, a milestone integrating the farm into national defense programs.

“PTSD recovery is as critical as physical care,” said Dr. Rivka Cohen, a psychiatrist collaborating with Matanya Farm.

“The Ministry’s approval allows us to treat soldiers who might otherwise struggle to access specialized trauma support.”

In April 2025, Israel Friends received the Shield of Israel Award from the World Zionist Organization, and Matanya Farm was awarded the HaEmek Prize for its humanitarian impact.

Looking ahead, Israel Friends plans to expand mental health and trauma recovery programs by establishing additional centers to reach more survivors and front-line personnel.

“Israel Friends has demonstrated that civilian networks can act quickly and effectively in ways that complement formal military and government responses,” said Yoav Ben-David, a policy analyst specializing in emergency preparedness.