THE NEED
Israel’s economic growth in recent years has had minimal impact on the periphery. The economic stagnation that these areas have suffered is compounded by the dire security situation. The north has not yet recovered from the economic repercussions of the Second Lebanon War and citizens live under the threat of recurred violence; in the western Negev, life has come to a virtual standstill as deadly missiles rain down on an almost daily basis. Residents are in constant fear for their lives. Flight from the region by stronger populations is particularly worrisome in light of the demographic threat looming over these vulnerable sections of the country. A massive population drain from the area, God forbid, would be a victory for our enemies.
Hardest hit are the most disadvantaged sectors of the population: youth-at-risk, new immigrants, most notably, the Ethiopian community, and the elderly.
KEREN HAYESOD'S RESPONSE
Serious intervention is needed to strengthen Israel’s periphery and to help disadvantaged populations break out of the vicious cycle of poverty, despair, and alienation. In an economy that is increasingly profit oriented, the disintegration of the social safety net that that ensured greater social and economic parity during the country’s early years has made the role of Keren Hayesod central in addressing the growing disparities in economic, educational, and geographic advantage.
Securing the social and economic future of the Jewish state requires investment in long-term solutions that will close social gaps and have a lasting impact on the lives of the underprivileged. By offering opportunities that empower high-risk and vulnerable populations, particularly in the regions of strategic priority, the Negev and the Galilee, Keren Hayesod is sending our enemies a clear message: we are only here to stay. By supporting comprehensive, innovative programs that target vulnerable populations, particularly youth, Keren Hayesod is providing the building blocks for a better future for Israeli society.
Through a catalog of innovative programs, Keren Hayesod is working to strengthen Israeli society and secure the social and economic future of the state.
Closing social gaps by providing educational opportunities for Israeli youngsters in the periphery:
iNet@
iAtidim
iSparks of Science
Strengthening and restoring the demographic balance of the Negev and the Galilee:
iYouth Futures
iAyalim
iTsafona and Daroma
Empowering particularly vulnerable populations – youth-at-risk, the elderly, and new olim and enabling them to live lives of dignity:
iYouth Villages
iEthiopian National Project
iSheltered housing for the elderly
HELP STRENGTHEN ISRAELI SOCIETY