A Warm Embrace
The Weighted Blanket Campaign by American Friends of NATAL and TOM
Weighted blankets are gaining recognition for their remarkable benefits in aiding individuals with trauma. Providing deep pressure stimulation, akin to a comforting embrace, these blankets are known to encourage the release of serotonin and melatonin, key hormones that help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Better sleep is crucial for the recovery journey of trauma survivors. Users, encompassing both adults and children, have reported significant improvements in the quality and duration of their sleep, leading to enhanced daily functioning and rehabilitation.
Weighted blankets are a proven tool for emotional healing and resilience. Especially those affected by PTSD & other traumas.
Photo by TOM
Fundraising Initiative for Trauma Healing
In a collaborative effort to support trauma recovery, American Friends of NATALAmerican Friends of NATAL (AFN) is partnering with TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers in a fundraising campaign. This campaign is dedicated to providing Israeli victims of trauma with weighted blankets, a proven tool for emotional healing and resilience. For those affected by PTSD and other trauma-related challenges, this initiative marks a substantial step forward. With a donation of $108, a weighted blanket can be provided to an individual undergoing treatment for trauma, offering them a tangible resource for comfort and recovery.
“This campaign represents a beautiful partnership between American Friends of NATAL and TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers, two organizations united by a common purpose to offer hope and healing to those suffering from trauma. By combining our resources, expertise, and compassionate drive, we are able to give a promise of support and resilience to those who need it most," commented Maayan Aviv, Executive Director and CEO at American Friends of NATAL.
Together, the organizations have already garnered support for over 400 blankets. The campaign is now pushing to reach a milestone of 500 weighted blankets, to provide warmth and security to those going through the healing process.
In a collaborative effort to support trauma recovery, AFN is partnering with TOM.
Photo by TOM
Positive Feedback from Professionals
Healthcare professionals, including those at Ichilov Hospital’s rehabilitation ward, have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the use of weighted blankets in patient care. The enhanced sleep quality provided by these blankets has been credited with notable improvements in patient outcomes. An occupational therapist from the hospital observed, “Thanks to you, patients are able to sleep better, which reduces the pain that most of them experience. They were much more alert today, and their cooperation during treatment improved significantly.”
This campaign represents an opportunity to extend a collective embrace to trauma survivors, demonstrating that they are not alone even in their most challenging times. American Friends of NATAL and TOM are committed to spreading healing across the globe, one weighted blanket at a time. Each blanket serves as a symbol of hope and community support, making a tangible difference in the lives of those it reaches.
Weighted blankets have shown benefits in supporting individuals dealing with trauma. They offer deep pressure stimulation similar to a hug.
Photo by TOM.
Joint Effort for Trauma Recovery and Support
American Friends of NATAL (AFN) is dedicated to supporting the Israeli organization NATAL, which provides critical assistance to Israelis affected by trauma, primarily stemming from terrorism and war. AFN engages in unique collaborations, partnering with U.S. organizations that seek NATAL's expertise in trauma preparedness and recovery. In times of crisis, NATAL becomes a national lifeline, with its Helpline experiencing a massive surge in calls, serving over 5,000 daily and requiring an unprecedented number of volunteers and staff. NATAL's urgent needs include expanding clinical services, recruiting and training additional volunteers, and providing emergency psychological assistance.
In parallel, TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers, an Israeli-born global technology nonprofit, focuses on creating and sharing affordable solutions for people with disabilities and the elderly, leveraging a network of volunteer professionals. While typically offering a wide range of solutions, TOM has, since October 7, concentrated its efforts in Israel to support those affected by the crisis. This includes manufacturing weighted blankets, portable toilet seats, wheelchairs for kids, and more, all available for free on their website.
These two organizations, normally operating in separate spheres, have come together in a joint effort to address the urgent needs arising from the crisis. Their combined expertise in trauma recovery and innovative solution development demonstrates how organizations are working together to achieve a common goal.