FAQ
How does the ICF provide support?
A portion of the funds received will be used for urgent immediate relief to support the children. The criteria for this support is set by the ICF Board.
This has been ongoing and funds have already been deployed, reaching more than 200 children who lost a parent on October 7th.
After immediate relief is handled, the majority of the funds will be managed as a trust fund that will benefit the children over time. The ICF long-term vertical focuses on closing the gaps where public (and other) support for the children winds down - and where parental assistance usually continues.
What does the long-term support involve?
ICF is Establishing a trust fund to sponsor vital life milestones, particularly aiding the children as they transition from childhood to the early stages of adulthood. Consequently, the enduring resources of ICF will be allocated to each young adult aged 18 and above for the following objectives: marriage, starting a family, acquiring a home, initiating a business venture, pursuing higher education, and more.
In addition to financial assistance, our community is in the process of creating a long-term mentorship/ companion program that will have a direct impact on the personal and professional development of these young adults. Ranging from technology and business executives to artists and coaches, we are constructing a network of individuals poised to empower these young adults to flourish in the areas of their interests and passions.
Who exactly are the fund's beneficiaries?
Eligible beneficiaries are Israeli citizens currently between the ages of 0-25, who lost one or both parents in the October 7 terrorist attack, or that one or both of their parents are held hostage.
Are you co-operating with other organizations?
Yes, we are actively collaborating with other organizations and maintaining constant communication with both existing entities and newer players in this landscape. Our primary aim is to foster collaboration and synergize our efforts wherever possible to amplify our impact. This commitment to collective strength and shared objectives is precisely what led ICF and Otfim BeAhava to join forces and merge into one organization.
It's important to note that while many existing organizations in this field focus on immediate and mid-term objectives, the Israeli Children's Fund (ICF) has a distinct long-term vision. We are dedicated to supporting these children into adulthood, providing them with the financial security and the personal mentorship they need to unlock their full potential.
How are the funds managed?
The funds are securely managed through an established donations platform, IsraelGives/AmericaGives, which provides expertise in regulatory and tax compliance. Immediate relief funds are disbursed from this account in accordance with the policies set forth by the ICF board.
For the responsible and strategic long-term management of these funds, a dedicated professional committee is diligently working on structuring an endowment model. This model aims to ensure sustained support for the children, with a focus on prudent investment strategies, and careful consideration of both short-term and long-term financial goals. This approach will help maximize the impact of these resources over time while safeguarding the fund's integrity.
Who provides legal supervision and Auditing to ICF?
Auditors: EY Israel
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These reputable firms ensure the transparency, compliance, and legal soundness of our operations, contributing to our commitment to accountability and responsible financial management.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. In the US funds are transferred via a registered United States 501(c)(3) charity. In Israel donations are recognized for tax purposes under Section 46 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance.
Additionally via IsraelGives donations are also tax deductible in Canada, UK, France, EU and Australia.
Are 100% of donations going directly to support the children?
Currently, our organization is entirely managed by volunteers so every dollar donated is allocated to support children impacted by October 7th. ICF leadership and volunteers have personally contributed to the fund and are steadfast in their commitment to minimizing overhead costs, leveraging the extensive expertise of our volunteers, while making sure to create a professionally run organization in the longer term.
Who exactly is receiving these funds and support?
Eligible beneficiaries are Israeli citizens, who lost one or both parents in the October 7 terrorist attack and the ensuing military operation, or have a parent held hostage.
Can corporations and other organizations get involved?
Absolutely. We have several ways for corporations to participate, starting from corporate matching, and spanning financial and other initiatives including mentoring. Please contact us for more details.
Aren’t there government organizations that are supposed to do this ?
There are government agencies and other non-profit organizations that support orphans, but the magnitude of the current events is unprecedented - and most support by the government begins subsiding at the age of 18. After researching the current operational landscape, speaking with existing organizations and trauma experts, we have learned that children who thrive past significant trauma are those that are able to envision what comes next for them in their lives, and can envision a positive future for themselves. We want to make sure that financially, and physically, nothing stands in their way.
How many children were affected?
As of March 31, there were 387 children aged 0-25 who lost one parent, and 29 children aged 0-25 who lost both parents. Please note that these figures specifically pertain to children of civilians., It's important to recognize that there are over 500 children who lost a parent serving in the Israeli security forces, and they receive support from the IDF Widows & Orphans Organization.
