Hope and a Future

Daystar’s work with the youngest victims of terrorism

The photo above is a portion of the 1,200 Israeli children participating in camps made possible by Daystar Israel project partner Keren Hayesod and the Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT).  

The devastating impact of the October 7th attacks and subsequent war has left an unprecedented number of children without one or both parents. These young victims face the most severe and complex trauma, often compounded by their own exposure to horrific events. Currently, there are 46 children under the age of 21 who have lost both parents, and 286 who have lost one parent.  

Orphaned children require immediate and long-term support to navigate their grief, develop resilience, and rebuild their lives. Their needs are multifaceted, including:  

• Intensive psychological and emotional support
• Assistance for new guardians (often grandparents)
• Educational support and tutoring
• Social integration programs
• Financial assistance for daily needs and future planning.

The trauma these children have endured is unparalleled in recent Israeli history. Without comprehensive support, the long-term consequences for these young lives could be severe. FVOT is committed to providing the necessary resources to help these children not just survive, but thrive in the face of their tragic circumstances. 

Daystar Television, thanks to the generosity of our Daystar partners, was able to provide support to 15 Israeli children orphaned by the October 7th attacks. This support provides the following benefits for children whose lives have been tragically affected:  

• Psychological treatment: Intensive therapy sessions, trauma-informed care, and ongoing mental health support
• Support for new guardians: Financial assistance and resources for grandparents or other family members who have taken on the responsibility of raising these children
• Educational support: Tutoring, school supplies, and educational enrichment programs
• Social integration: Programs to help children maintain and build new social connections
• Daily living expenses: Assistance with food, clothing, and other necessities
• Future planning: Funds set aside for higher education or vocational training