(Courtesy of Sharsheret) Sharsheret, the only national nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of women and families of all Jewish backgrounds facing breast cancer and ovarian cancer, is proud to announce the launch of an Israel initiative pilot program. This program represents a significant milestone as Sharsheret ventures into providing on-the-ground services in Israel for the first time.

The expansion is a response to a pressing need and growing demand. Over the past few years, more than 100 Anglo women have sought psychosocial support from Sharsheret in the United States, highlighting the necessity for such services in communities in Israel. Sharsheret’s services will now be available to women, men and families who have felt the impact of a breast cancer or ovarian cancer diagnosis in Israel, and help individuals with genetic mutations that have a ripple effect on relatives across the globe.

To help meet the growing needs of those at risk for or living with a cancer diagnosis in Israel, Sharsheret’s renowned peer support network will be expanded to include Israel callers. This integral program of more than 30,000 women sharing cancer-related experiences enables cancer thrivers to connect, share information and provide critical peer-to-peer support during their cancer journey.

Sharsheret offers support from its 15 U.S.-based genetic and mental health counselors. It will provide Israeli women, men and families facing breast cancer, ovarian cancer and hereditary risk for cancer the following key services and resources: one-on-one virtual psychosocial support; personalized cancer navigation services; community-wide education; tailored peer connections; facilitated support groups; and surgery care kits.

“During this time of war, the Sharsheret Israel Initiative comes at a vital time to help support both the physical and mental needs of women in Israel who are facing the dual trauma of war and breast cancer or ovarian cancer,” said Sharsheret CEO Elana Silber. “The need for available support is something we can answer, and we will also generate awareness and lifesaving conversations in Israel.”

To access services in Israel and for more information, visit see sharsheret.org/israel or contact Sharsheret Israel Program Coordinators Pnina Mor at [email protected] or Liora Tannenbaum at [email protected].