Jewish Federations of North America Opens First of 16 Mental Health Centers in Israel

The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), in collaboration with Israel’s Health Ministry, has launched the first of 16 planned community health centers in Israel, aimed at addressing the mental health needs of Israelis.

The center, unveiled on Thursday, represents a significant step in a broader initiative to provide accessible mental health services to hundreds of thousands of individuals without the stigma often associated with mental illness.

The inaugural health center, located within the Hadassah Youth Neurim Village in Beit Yanai, was dedicated in memory of Niv Raviv and Nirel Zini, a young couple tragically murdered during the Hamas terror attacks on Kibbutz Kfar Aza.

This facility marks the beginning of a national network intended to serve communities across Israel, particularly in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks, which underscored the pressing need for mental health services.

Eric D. Fingerhut, CEO and President of JFNA, emphasized the importance of the initiative, saying, “The need for us to invest in professional, high-quality, consistent, permanent networks of mental health support is an absolute necessity.”

He described the health center opening as “the culmination of a commitment” by Jewish communities worldwide to support Israel’s recovery, particularly in terms of mental health and emotional rebuilding.

JFNA’s $7 million contribution to the “Mental Health in the Community” program in July set the foundation for this effort.

The organization has played a crucial role in funding the program, which addresses the mental health challenges resulting from the ongoing conflict, as well as the long-term psychological needs of Israelis.

Health Minister Uriel Busso, who joined Fingerhut for the opening ceremony, also highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort. “The project we are launching today would not have been possible without the wonderful partnership of the Jewish Federations of North America,” Busso said.

He noted that JFNA’s commitment reflects the deep bond between Israel and the Jewish diaspora, particularly in times of crisis.

The initiative is backed by several Federations, including those in Chicago, Toronto, Houston, and Dallas, whose financial contributions have been instrumental in launching the health center network.

These centers will focus on providing mental health support, therapy, and counseling services to individuals affected by the violence and trauma of recent conflicts.

In addition to the mental health program, JFNA has been actively involved in emergency relief efforts across Israel.

In September, the organization allocated $43 million in emergency funds to support communities in northern Israel affected by the ongoing conflict.

These funds were used to assist terror attack victims with medical and mental health care, provide food and housing for displaced residents, and rebuild communities and local businesses that were severely damaged during the war.

The establishment of these health centers reflects a critical component of the broader effort to heal and rebuild Israel in the aftermath of ongoing violence.

By addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of its citizens, JFNA and its partners are helping ensure that the long-term recovery of Israel includes a focus on mental health and community resilience.