When Yocheved Stroll’s husband joined Israel’s reserve forces after October 7th, a simple meal delivery voucher transformed their family’s hardest days. Their story reveals the hidden weight carried by thousands of reserve families across Israel.
When we decided that my husband would join shlav bet and go straight into miluim, it was not a decision we made lightly. Our family life is full—three young children, a new community, new jobs, and the daily rhythms of raising a household. Choosing to step into the framework of army service at this stage came with its challenges, but it also felt deeply right.
For us, the choice came down to responsibility—on multiple levels. First, there is the responsibility to Am Yisrael in a time of need. October 7th was a turning point, a moment when we understood that every hand, every skill, and every shoulder matters in safeguarding our people. My husband’s place may not be on the front lines, but in logistics and support, he is enabling others to serve and to protect.
Second, there is a halachic and moral responsibility. We believe strongly that defending the Jewish people and the Land of Israel is not just a civic duty, but also a mitzvah — a form of avodat Hashem. Even though it means sacrifice—time away from home, extra weight on the family—it also means taking part in something larger than ourselves, something eternal.
Finally, there is the responsibility to our children. We want them to grow up seeing that service is not an abstract concept, but something real and lived. They should know that their parents believe in showing up when called, even when it is inconvenient, even when it is hard. That, too, is avodat Hashem — modeling for them that every part of life can be directed toward serving Hashem.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the support system around us. In many ways, miluim is not just the service of the soldier—it is the service of the spouse who carries the home, the children who learn resilience, the community that steps in to help. When one member of the family wears the uniform, the entire family is drafted too.
That’s why the help we’ve received along the way has meant so much. Something as simple as a Wolt gift card made an enormous difference for our family. When someone generously gave us 1,000 shekels for meals, it wasn’t just about food—it was about breathing room. It meant that on a day when everything felt overwhelming, I didn’t also have to worry about cooking. It meant the kids could have a hot meal, and I could have a moment of relief. Other support, like help with uniforms and gear, also eases the financial and emotional load. Each gesture reminds us that we are not carrying this alone.
So why did we choose miluim? Because this is our story, our history, and our people. Because when Am Yisrael needs us, we cannot stand aside. And because we believe that in giving of ourselves, we are taking part in avodat Hashem — showing our children that every aspect of life, even its sacrifices, can be dedicated to serving Hashem.
Smiles for the Kids provides direct support to families of Israeli soldiers through meal vouchers, equipment assistance, and emergency aid. Every donation goes directly to families like the Strolls who carry the weight of service on the home front. To support reserve families today, visit www.smilesforthekids.com