Supporting Israel’s emergency response

In the wake of recent Iranian missile attacks on Israel, the Wolfson Medical Center and its Save a Child’s Heart Sylvan Adams Children’s Hospital (located within the Wolfson campus) have mobilised rapidly to care for wounded civilians, while continuing to provide life-saving paediatric care to Israeli children and children from around the world.

Thanks to a $3 million investment through Save a Child’s Heart’s 2023–2024 Emergency Campaign, the Sylvan Adams Children’s Hospital is equipped with modern trauma and neonatal care infrastructure – including incubators, surgical equipment and emergency preparedness supplies – enabling a rapid and high-quality medical response. Among those cared for are 40 children currently under Save a Child’s Heart’s care, along with their mothers. In response to safety concerns, the Wolfson Neonatal Unit was relocated to a fortified underground area at the Sylvan Adams Children’s Hospital where 15 newborns are now receiving care in a secure setting.

Save a Child’s Heart Australia CEO Jo Star told The AJN, “In times of crisis, it’s the quiet generosity of our supporters that truly makes a difference. Thanks to our Australian donors, critical medical equipment is now helping save lives and protect children under unimaginable circumstances. We are incredibly proud to see the impact of Australian philanthropy supporting Israel when it is most needed.”

Star said that Save a Child’s Heart Australia is also appealing for additional support at this time of turmoil.

“The Sylvan Adams Children’s Hospital plays an essential role in Israel’s healthcare system – providing general paediatric care to around 10 per cent of all Israeli children, while also being home to Save a Child’s Heart, which treats children from around the world with no access to lifesaving cardiac care. In light of the current crisis, the need for vital medical equipment is more pressing than ever. We are appealing to our community to help us strengthen the hospital’s capacity to care for children in both times of peace and emergency.”