News From our Israel Team

With the support of our generous donors, Just One Life/ Nefesh Achat B’Yisrael has always been at the forefront of supporting pregnant women in Israel during their time of need. But this year, that definition grew to include more women and more needs than we ever could have anticipated… 

• Being laid off from work while expecting a new baby can be extremely anxiety-provoking, especially for someone who already was not covering their monthly expenses. Lockdowns and kids off from school mean expectant mothers on bedrest or postpartum women recovering from labor are not being granted the precious hours of respite that school usually provides. We’ve seen an increase in pre-term labor and birth-related complications as mothers find it impossible to care for themselves properly when their other children are home and requiring care.
• Many pregnant women were forced to labor alone or were separated from their infant moments after birth when a spouse or child of the woman tested positive. Many new mothers did not receive adequate postpartum care as they were placed in COVID wards. Left alone, weak, and tired after labor, many mothers did not have the energy to advocate for themselves or their newborn child. These traumatic separations and conditions left many mothers with lingering trauma and attachment challenges. 
• Many clients were left without basic supplies for their babies when forced to quarantine after giving birth. We received countless calls asking if we can provide basic supplies such as formula, baby clothing, diapers, and pacifiers.
• Women who typically have strong support systems and social interactions were left isolated and alone due to quarantines and lockdowns. We have seen an increase in peripartum and postpartum depression (PPD) as isolation and lack of familial support is a direct risk factor for PPD.

We are so thankful for the help that we have been able to provide to these expectant mothers and their families at their greatest time of need. At a time when the whole world is struggling, it has been our greatest honor and privilege to join with our supporters in offering a small beacon of light and hope to each and every expectant mother and family who is referred to us.

However, with all the success we have seen, we cannot help but think ahead to all the work that still needs to be done. We would love to be able to offer more support for women whose pregnancies and births have been affected by COVID-19. We would love to send them care packages that can help these mothers better care for themselves and their babies. With the upcoming holidays, we would like to be able to provide more financial and support to help our families make it through

We thank you for your loyal support and hope that we can count on your continued partnership.