Israel's National Insurance Institute Funds New Wellness Centers for Terror Victims

Israel's National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi) has allocated approximately 28 million shekels to establish and expand "Soul, Body, Spirit" centers, offering comprehensive rehabilitation services to terror attack victims. These centers will provide a range of activities including sports, leisure, and therapeutic treatments, with the first year of access being free for eligible individuals.

The initiative aims to create community hubs where over 30,000 recognized terror victims with at least 20% disability can regularly engage in physical training, receive support, and connect with others. The facilities will feature amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, mini-football fields, CrossFit areas, hydrotherapy pools, and various sports like table tennis, Pilates, cycling, and martial arts.

Beyond physical activities, the centers will offer diverse therapeutic services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, emotional therapy, and massage. They will also host resilience-building workshops and community gatherings. The goal is to foster a sense of belonging and support for victims as they reintegrate into daily life.

Special emphasis is being placed on accessibility in southern Israel, where about half of the eligible population resides. Three centers are located in areas near the Gaza Strip, specifically in Sha'ar HaNegev, Edi Negev, and Sderot, with others distributed nationwide. These centers were selected through an open bidding process.

The Rehabilitation Services for Disabled Persons Fund, under the National Insurance Institute, will oversee the centers, monitoring their usage and identifying evolving needs to inform future service expansions. Zvi Cohen, acting director of the institute, encouraged eligible individuals to utilize the centers for their physical and mental well-being, stating the institute's commitment extends beyond financial aid to supporting victims' return to full lives.