New Home Opens for Lone Haredi Soldiers in Jerusalem to Provide Support and Shelter
A new residence for lone Haredi soldiers was inaugurated in the Kiryat Moshe neighborhood of Jerusalem, marking the 34th such home established by the National Union for Haredi Service "Shomer Yisrael" and the Netzach Yehuda Association. This housing network currently supports around 250 lone soldiers serving in various units and programs, offering them a warm home and supportive environment.
The newly opened apartment houses seven soldiers serving in diverse roles, including the Netzach Yehuda Battalion, the Yoav Project, Bina B'Yerok, and the intelligence corps. The home was donated by David Friedman from Los Angeles in memory of his Holocaust survivor parents and father-in-law, Rabbi Yaakov ben Mordechai Friedman, Hannah Leah daughter of Yitzhak David, and Shlomo Yechiel Halevi son of Moshe.
Rabbi Tzvi Kalbano, president and co-founder of Netzach Yehuda, emphasized the importance of providing a true home for lone soldiers, explaining that the official IDF definition of a lone soldier is someone whose parents do not live in Israel, but their definition is broader to reflect the unique social dynamics of the Haredi community. He stressed that no soldier should face loneliness and that every soldier deserves a place to call home, especially given the significant personal sacrifices they make.
Kalbano highlighted the soldiers’ dedication, noting that their service involves giving up time, comfort, and a place in a world that does not always recognize their contribution. He stated that the organization’s responsibility is to ensure these soldiers never have to wonder where they will sleep or if someone cares about them, providing them with a warm meal, their own bed, and someone to check on their wellbeing.
Yehuda Shapira, director of the housing division at Netzach Yehuda, added that behind every door in these homes is a life story of soldiers who chose to serve and often pay a personal price. He described the new apartment as more than just housing, but a true home where soldiers feel wanted, cared for, and safe.
