By Nativia Samuelsen

In the heart of Israel, amid the uncertainty of the surrounding conflict, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem continues to support social aid projects that look beyond the war towards building a better future for all the people of Israel. One such project seeks to ensure all of Israel benefits from its renowned status as the “Start-Up Nation” by bridging the technological divide that threatens to leave behind the country’s most vulnerable sectors.

Israel recently ranked number 10 globally in the 2023 Global Innovation Index, in large part due to a thriving tech ecosystem with over 6,000 startups – one of the highest per capita in the world. The country’s tech sector is supported by a highly skilled workforce, with more than 11,000 professionals and about 20% of the workforce engaged in hi-tech roles. In 2023 alone, Israeli startups secured over $8 billion in funding, reflecting the steady, strong investment and growth within the industry.

Despite this, a significant portion of Israeli society remains disconnected from the flurry of innovation. Astonishingly, 25% of Israelis are technologically illiterate due to cultural and financial barriers. A staggering 375,000 children in Israel do not have access to a computer at home, with the lack most prevalent among the poorest Jewish and Arab families. Thus, the Christian Embassy is sponsoring a program that aims to close this social gap by making hi-tech skills more accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances.

The program at the Ramot Social Computer Lab focuses on providing computer and technology training to Jewish and Arab children and youths at risk, job seekers, people with disabilities, and the elderly. The hope is to empower these individuals and offer educational and professional opportunities that foster social mobility and integration.

The initiative involves recycling and refurbishing computers, which are then distributed to disadvantaged families, thereby opening doors to the digital world for those who have been left behind.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago shined a spotlight on the urgent need for better tech tools and skills at work and in school. For many, the lack of computers at home and lack of experience with computers at school meant falling further behind in classes or losing access to essential online services. The demand for computers skyrocketed, and the waiting lists grew longer as families struggled to keep up with the new digital demands.

In response, efforts intensified to refurbish and distribute older computers to those in need. Volunteers, including youths at risk and disabled national service members, have played a crucial role in this process. Many have gained valuable skills in PC repair while also helping to supply more computers for children and families in need.

For instance, the program recycled an impressive 7.5 tons of electronic equipment in 2023, including over 6,500 kilos of computer equipment and 1,305 kilos of computers. That amounted to a lot of hard drives, flash drives, keyboards and cables. The program also provided 261 repaired computers to families in need. Late that same year, the project also supplied another 100 refurbished laptop and desktop computers to hastily evacuated families from the Gaza and northern border areas after the October 7 mass terror attacks. Finally, the project providing training to 60 volunteers and course participants, including at-risk and special needs youth, who all contributed to the steady supply of refurbished computers.

Despite the ongoing conflict in Israel, the ICEJ has remained steadfast in its support of this vital project. The war has undoubtedly added to the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, but it also has underscored the importance of continuing our efforts to close the social gaps here. Providing access to technology is not only about giving people the tools they need to succeed, it is about building confidence and giving them a sense of belonging in a time of great uncertainty.

The impact of this project is best captured in the words of a grateful mother whose family received a refurbished computer:

“In these difficult days that the world and each one of us are individually facing, it is not to be taken for granted that there are those who would gather themselves and their resources together despite personal challenges to help others. I want to thank everyone who so generously donated to us. It was a big help. You came to our aid and really saved us. We are certain that there are many other families in our situation, and they are also deeply grateful for this help. Thank you to everyone who made this donation possible.”

Through projects like this, the Christian Embassy continues to support Israelis in need, offering them the tools and opportunities to build a brighter future. With your help, our “Future and a Hope” fund can continue to bridge the remaining social divides and contribute to a more prosperous Israel.

Donate today at: help.icej.org/future-hope