Following the tragic events of Oct. 7, 2023, Rabbi Yosef Zvi Rimon personally visited injured soldiers, raised funds for urgent needs, and supported the soldiers on the front lines. Recognizing a crucial need, he turned his focus to the families left behind—the widows and children of fallen soldiers.
Rabbi Rimon stated: “In our current war, we see things that we haven’t ever seen: Never have we attacked back after a pogrom. And it wouldn’t have happened if the brave soldiers and their spouses weren’t there. We see the hand of God in this response—we can’t leave them alone. Our mission is not just to think about the next few months, but for the future. There were even babies born after the soldier was killed. We need to think about how to help them for the next 20 years.”
Since its inception, Sulamot has been at the forefront of educational innovation and impactful decision-making in Jewish life. Founded by Rabbi Rimon, Sulamot embodies the philosophy of Torah and chesed (loving kindness), ensuring that those in need receive the support they deserve. With a history of transformative initiatives, Sulamot has now launched Kuma, a groundbreaking program dedicated to aiding the widows and children of fallen IDF soldiers from the ongoing Swords of Iron War.
Rabbi Rimon has consistently responded to the pressing challenges of the Jewish people. After the disengagement from Gush Katif in 2005, he established JobKatif, which successfully transitioned the affected population from 85% unemployment to 88% employment. His ability to identify gaps in support and mobilize resources has become a hallmark of his work. He is the chief rabbi of Gush Etzion, founder of Sulamot and La’Ofek (two nonprofit organizations), as well as the nasi of the World Mizrachi Movement.
The Kuma Initiative: Building a Future for the Families of the Fallen
The loss of a spouse or parent in war is a life-altering event, and the widows and children left behind bear the emotional and financial burden for years to come. While significant Israeli government support exists, there are gaps, particularly in areas such as holiday assistance, childcare, education, and unforeseen medical expenses. Shlomit Peretz had to stop working after her husband was killed so that she could focus on the family. Kuma was created to fill these gaps and provide a comprehensive, long-term support system.
Key aspects of the Kuma program include:
Personalized Financial Assistance: Each widow undergoes a detailed intake process with a dedicated committee and financial advisers to determine her unique needs.
Navigational Support: Bureaucracy can be overwhelming, especially during times of grief. Kuma provides guidance to help access the rights and connect with additional supportive organizations.
Long-Term Commitment: Each widow is guaranteed at least five years of ongoing support to ensure stability and growth for herself and her children.
Oversight and Transparency: An external advisory board ensures proper allocation of funds and program effectiveness.
In addition to Rabbi Rimon, Kuma is spearheaded by an exceptional team dedicated to the cause:
Shlomit Peretz, program manager, an IDF widow and daughter-in-law of the esteemed educator Miriam Peretz, who brings firsthand experience and deep empathy to the program.
Shlomit Kalmanzon, senior adviser, whose husband was tragically killed at Kibbutz Be’eri. Her insights ensure the program remains sensitive to the needs of widows navigating this difficult journey.
Rav Eli Taragin, CEO of Sulamot, who is leading the initiative with expertise and vision.
The numbers are staggering—over 300 newly widowed IDF spouses from this war alone, with 50 already receiving assistance and 150 more in the process of joining. By 2026, Kuma aims to reach all 300 families. However, sustaining and expanding this program requires the generosity of individuals and communities worldwide.
Sulamot, in partnership with World Mizrachi and Mizrachi Canada, is committed to ensuring that 100% of every donated dollar goes directly to supporting widows and their children. While a generous donor has pledged to cover the first year of overhead expenses, the long-term success of Kuma depends on ongoing contributions from compassionate supporters.
As in the past, Sulamot partners with communities across the globe to help fund their activities (helping reservists’ families or those from displaced communities); for example, Bergen County adopted the community of Kerem Shalom and helped support them.
These families have sacrificed so much for the security of Israel and the Jewish people. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are not left behind. Join us in building a future filled with hope, stability, and dignity for the widows and children of Israel’s fallen heroes.
To donate or learn more, visit https://www.sulamot.org/en/kuma/
Arnie Draiman is a philanthropic consultant helping people and foundations give their tzedaka money away wisely, efficiently and effectively, for over 25 years. In addition, he consults to hi-tech startups, and is an expert in social media marketing and promotion. He can be reached at: ajdraiman@gmail.com
