Strength in Crisis

An Urgent Need for Training

Since Oct. 7th 2023, the civilian population of the state of Israel has been under constant attack on multiple fronts. Communities all over the country have been experiencing rocket barrages, terrorist attacks and UAV launches which have taken the lives of over 1,200 civilians on the 7^th of October alone. The style of warfare and weaponry being used is designed to maximize the possibility of mortal wounds to civilians, overwhelm all systems of response and produce the highest number of fatalities creating mass casualty situations throughout the country.   

In the critical moments following an attack, there is only a narrow window to administer lifesaving care. Nearly 90% of war-zone casualties occur before reaching professional medical treatment. Many victims of the October 7^th attack commented that they waited sometimes up to 14 hours for medical professionals to reach them. 

With mere seconds to seek shelter, overstretched emergency responders, and the ever-present threat of mass casualties, one thing is clear: civilians need the skills and tools to survive and help others. 

Delivering Emergency Training Courses

Recognizing this urgent need,  in partnership with Solo Schools International we designed an accredited Crises Medical Training to launch a hands-on, lifesaving training initiative designed to empower ordinary people to respond effectively when every second counts. 

Through this initiative, Shai Fund has provided emergency medical training across multiple locations in Israel, including Haifa, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights—areas where civilians have between 15 to 90 seconds to take cover during an attack. 

So far, 136 individuals have been trained in fundamental emergency medical skills, equipping them to identify and treat injuries in time. Additionally, select participants were trained as instructors, ensuring the program’s sustainability and broader community impact. 

This two-day intensive program teaches essential first aid skills, including how to address life-threatening injuries, stop severe bleeding, perform CPR, and manage mass casualty events. The training demystifies emergency response, offering a structured approach that helps participants assess situations, prioritize care, and take action under pressure. 

Through realistic role-playing and simulations, trainees gain hands-on experience to ensure they are ready to respond in real-life emergencies. Each participant also receives a medical kit, ensuring they are not only trained but also equipped to provide aid when needed. 

Building Resilience One Training at a Time

The program has had a profound effect on participants, significantly boosting confidence and resilience. Many attendees, including those with no prior medical experience, reported feeling much more prepared to handle emergencies. Hands-on exercises and interactive discussions were particularly valued, fostering a greater sense of readiness and reducing anxiety, especially in wartime conditions.  

Stories of Courage and Transformation

Participants in the Crisis First Aid training have shared powerful testimonies about its impact. A tour guide from Haifa is now advocating for her entire community to receive the training, noting that the tourism council in Gaza envelope settlements is "eager to participate in future courses." 

A retired nurse described it as the best training she has ever attended, emphasizing that it goes beyond learning skills—"it equips individuals to face the unthinkable with confidence and hope." 

In Tel Aviv, where missile strikes have caused devastating casualties, a young father shared how the course eased his anxiety, stating that while living in a war zone is terrifying, he now feels "ready to help his family and neighbors if an emergency occurs." 

These stories underscore the program’s transformative effect, empowering individuals to take action and support their communities in times of crisis. 

A Legacy of Preparedness

This program is not just a temporary solution—it is building a culture of preparedness. Five local instructors, including a doctor, a nurse, an EMT, and a reserve soldier, have been certified to expand the reach of this training, ensuring that more communities receive life-saving education. 

The Crisis First Aid program aims to build confidence and resilience within local communities, ensuring that individuals are equipped to respond effectively in times of crisis. By training volunteers in essential EMS principles, the program empowers them to sustain life until professional medical care is available. Participants gain a deeper understanding of mortality risks following trauma injuries and basic medical emergencies, allowing them to act swiftly and decisively. 

The training also prepares civilians for mass casualty situations through triage knowledge and scenario-based simulations, reinforcing their ability to prioritize and manage multiple injuries. By demonstrating how and when to provide essential care using the Patient Assessment System, the program ensures that trainees develop both the skills and confidence needed to take action when it matters most. 

Thanks to your continued support and generosity, Shai Fund can continue expanding these efforts, equipping more Israelis with critical skills as the country works to rebuild, recover, and restore a sense of security.