JERUSALEM — A recent survey by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship) found that, due to rising prices and the overall economic situation in Israel, 43% of Israeli parents will apply for financial assistance to cover expenses during the summer. The summer is a season when most respondents said their expenses are “higher” or “much higher” than the rest of the year. The survey, conducted online through Israel’s Geocartography Group, is based on responses from approximately 500 parents aged 25 and older who have children up to the age of 18, constituting a representative sample of the adult population in Israel.

Among the findings:

  • 43% of all parents of children up to the age of 18 will apply for financial assistance for the summer
  • 22.3% do not yet know who to turn to for financial assistance
  • 81.4% will reduce their spending during the summer in light of rising prices
  • About one-fifth of families will reduce summer spending on groceries (19.6%) and home cooling (18.6%)
  • 78.8% expect an increase in household expenses in the summer compared to the rest of the year
  • 67% cut back on various expenses in order to buy food
  • 63% said that their financial situation is deteriorating in light of the increased summer expenses

In light of the dire situation highlighted by this survey, Israel’s Ministry of Welfare and Social Security and The Fellowship have allocated more than $60 million over the next three years to a flexible assistance program for people in need, including impoverished families, the elderly, Holocaust survivors, homeless people, and more. Assistance provided includes food, medical supplies, housing, basic electrical appliances, basic furniture, clothing, and more.

“Israel is a nation of immigrants,” said Yael Eckstein, president of IFCJ Canada. “While these people come to their biblical homeland for the promise of a better life, they often encounter unique difficulties — barriers of language and culture that make it difficult for them to adapt to life in their new home.

“These are just some of the people we’re helping with this new initiative because the results of our survey clearly show all Israelis are feeling the harsh effects of the global economic crisis. Israeli families need help, and we are proud to be able to give it to them. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, most of whom are Christians who give sacrificially to help Israel and her people, Israeli families in need will be provided with the essential items and services they need to make it through the summer months — and our aid to Israelis in need will continue throughout the rest of the year, as well.”