Arkia. Photo: Shutterstock For the first time, Arkia will fly five delegations of the U.S.-based Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) organization to New York as part of the "Legacy" program, which includes bereaved siblings and orphans of fallen Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers.
The program, which marks its 20th anniversary this year, will enable approximately 300 bereaved siblings and IDF orphans who have experienced the loss of a first-degree family member, including many who lost loved ones during the "Swords of Iron" war, to participate in an enriching, empowering, and supportive journey through Jewish communities across the United States.
Oz Berlovitz, CEO of Arkia, said: "We are proud and excited to take part for the first time in FIDF's special project, under which we will fly the delegation participants to the United States. For us, it is a great privilege to be involved in a journey that provides these young people with a meaningful experience, a sense of connection, and belonging within a warm and supportive Jewish community. As an Israeli airline, it carries special significance for us to participate in an initiative that connects Jewish communities around the world with families who have suffered the loss of what is most precious to them."
Yoram Hirschfeld, director of the FIDF delegation in the first cycle, the Arkia team and some of the delegation members. Photo: FIDF PRBrig. Gen. (Res.) Liron Donnell, CEO of FIDF Israel, said: "The Legacy program is one of the most meaningful initiatives we operate for bereaved siblings and IDF orphans as part of our ongoing support for bereaved families. For these young people, it is an opportunity to gain strength, build meaningful relationships, and meet peers who share similar life experiences. This year, with some participants having lost loved ones during the 'Swords of Iron' war, the significance of the program is greater than ever. We thank Arkia for providing a pleasant travel experience for the young participants taking part in the program."