Back2Life operates a therapeutic rehabilitation farm in Kibbutz Sdot Yam, Israel, serving military veterans coping with PTSD symptoms including post-traumatic stress, emotional distress, and reintegration challenges.
The program integrates animal care, therapeutic sessions and structured group activities in a nature-based setting. Groups of men and women veterans who are struggling with PTSD from their service participate in weekly therapeutic groups (approximately 8-10 per cohort), individual counseling, taking care of animals rescued from abuse and hands-on farm activities that foster responsibility, emotional regulation, sense of belonging and peer connection.
The program includes:
Individual and group psychotherapy led by trauma-trained clinicians
Animal-assisted therapeutic work with rescued animals
Emotional regulation and resilience workshops
Mind-body practices (yoga, Tai Chi)
Creative and vocational activities (woodworking, gardening, ceramics, art)
Established nine months ago, the program already supports a community of approximately 90 veterans. Grant funding will sustain operations and expand capacity to meet growing demand.