WIZO Israel – Sustaining Community Resilience in Times of War

Throughout March, under ongoing security challenges, WIZO Israel has continued to operate nationwide, maintaining physical activity in approximately 20 branches and keeping 24 Bigudit second-hand shops open, while expanding flexible and remote responses to meet evolving community needs.

Across the country, volunteers and professional teams are providing direct, hands-on support to families, women, children, and soldiers, both on the home front and in support of those serving on the front lines.

In Eilat, volunteers launched the “Adopt a Family” initiative, supporting reserve-duty families through babysitting, home-cooked meals, shopping assistance, and ongoing care. At the same time, volunteers across multiple communities are preparing warm clothing and knitted items for soldiers, alongside cooking efforts for troops.

WIZO Israel continues to support vulnerable women and children, including participants in programs for women and children affected by domestic violence. This includes the delivery of holiday food packages directly to homes, ongoing personal contact via phone and Zoom, and tailored responses to emerging needs, such as dedicated support sessions for children facing emotional challenges.

Community resilience activities continue across both in-person and digital platforms, including workshops, group meetings for women, and outreach to elderly and isolated women, ensuring consistent contact and emotional support through volunteer-led initiatives.

Educational and enrichment programs continue to operate, adapting formats as needed. For example, science-based learning activities in Daliyat al-Carmel have transitioned to online delivery, while other programs continue physically in protected environments, such as the “Kodem Ima” program for young mothers in Tel Aviv, held in a secure space near the branch.

Bigudit shops remain a critical community resource, providing clothing and essential items to evacuees and families in need. In Dimona, for example, volunteers mobilized quickly to supply clothing and equipment to affected residents.

Community engagement has also continued through creative adaptations, including virtual International Women’s Day events. One such event, led by the Tel Aviv branch, brought together approximately 100 women for an inspiring panel featuring senior female officers and their daughters, including Marsel Asulin, CEO of World WIZO. Participants shared their personal and professional journeys, offering an intergenerational perspective on leadership, family, and purpose, and highlighting the role of women as agents of change.

Through all of these efforts, WIZO Israel continues to demonstrate the strength of community-based action, remaining present, responsive, and deeply connected to those who need support most.

“In times of uncertainty, community is our strongest source of resilience. WIZO Israel’s volunteers are proving every day that even in crisis, we can show up — for women, for families, and for each other.”
Ora Korazim, Chairperson, WIZO Israel