Who are Lone Soldiers?

Lone soldiers are a unique group within the IDF, serving without family support nearby. They typically fall into two categories - immigrant soldiers, who come from abroad in order to serve in the IDF, or Israeli soldiers without family support.

While immigrant soldiers are automatically recognized as Lone Soldiers and receive necessary support, Israeli soldiers must undergo a verification process to gain similar recognition and access to services.

These soldiers face significant challenges: no home to return to on weekends, no comforting family meals, and no one to lean on for guidance. This loneliness can continue throughout their enlistment, service, and even as they transition back into civilian life.

New Immigrants
Approximately 50% of all Lone Soldiers enter their IDF service from Jewish communities outside of Israel.

Israeli Lone Soldiers
The remaining 50% of Israel’s Lone Soldiers come from communities within Israel. The majority of these Lone Soldiers are orphaned, come from low socio-economic backgrounds, or are estranged from their families due to cultural or religious factors. They lack a strong homefront support network during their service and often struggle to reintegrate into Israeli society when their IDF service concludes.

Motivated Defenders
Many Lone Soldiers serve in combat units, protecting Israel’s borders with unwavering dedication.

During the Iron Sword War, more than 11,000 Lone Soldiers served in the reserves.

Percentage of Lone Soldiers’ Country of Origin

Bubble chart showing distribution of Jews by origin, with the largest bubble representing Israel at 49, followed by the United States at 18, Former USSR at 13, Europe at 6, Latin America at 5, Australia at 4, Africa at 3, and Canada at 2.

What challenges do Lone Soldiers face?

  • Financial Struggles

    Despite a higher salary, Lone Soldiers often struggle to cover basic needs like rent, food, and utilities. The Lone Soldier Center helps reduce this burden by organizing meals and providing community support.

  • Lack of Information

    Without the guidance Israeli soldiers receive growing up, Lone Soldiers may lack crucial knowledge about life in the IDF. The Center provides seminars, guidance, and mentorship to bridge this gap and allow soldiers to make the most of their service.

  • Loneliness

    Returning to an empty apartment after a week on base can be isolating. The Center builds community through Shabbat meals, social events, and housing support, ensuring that no soldier feels alone.

These soldiers are our family - your family.