By: Marelinke van der Riet

On the 4th of July, as summer temperatures soared in Israel, I found myself amidst the scorching heat of a parking lot in Rishon LeZion, bustling with activity as we packed food and gifts for some 500 to 600 disadvantaged families. This challenging yet fulfilling task was eagerly taken on by a team of our dedicated ICEJ staff, along with numerous other local volunteers.

Each week, approximately 1200 people in need referred by Israeli social workers benefit from this outreach, encompassing diverse groups from Ethiopian and Russian Jewish immigrants to the elderly, singles, and large families – all are warmly welcomed. Services even extend to haircuts, offered at a symbolic nominal fee to foster dignity, despite the goods provided often amounting to around 500 NIS in value per customer.

To bolster these efforts, the ICEJ has contributed a large refrigerated truck for food collection, significantly easing transport challenges and enhancing efficiency. Although the needs are immense, this has already made a big difference.

Meanwhile, the misconception surrounding poverty in Israel persists. The stark reality is one of widening wealth disparity, which has only worsened due to the economic strains caused by the current conflict. According to Israel’s official poverty report for 2022, the poverty line stood at approximately NIS 3,076 income per month, affecting some 1.98 million people in Israel. In the second and third quarters of 2023, a troubling 31% of Israeli households lived in food insecurity due to economic reasons.

Currently, the economy is significantly impacted by the ongoing conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and with Hezbollah in the North. As of May this year, the costs of dairy products saw an average increase of 4.48%. Shockingly, food and beverage prices in Israel are 52% higher than the average among developed countries, second only to South Korea, according to data released in June by the global Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

What struck me most, however, was the unwavering dedication of the volunteers who had gathered to assist in packing the food at the Rishon LeZion mall. Among them, one woman stood out vividly: Orna. Despite the intense heat causing sweat to trickle down her face, she energetically shouted instructions in Hebrew, occasionally breaking into laughter as if we all understood her perfectly. Orna had previously held a managerial position at a bank before retiring early, dedicating the past seven years of her life to volunteering here. Her commitment is truly remarkable, especially considering she is deaf in one ear.

“I am still alive, so I want to give and help as much as I can,” she remarked with a determined smile.

In a similar vein, a lively group of university students enthusiastically also joined in packing food boxes. When questioned about their motivation for volunteering, they shared that they eagerly anticipated this opportunity each year to serve alongside their peers.

“We wait all year for this chance to give back and make a difference,” one exclaimed with a bright smile.

“We are so happy to volunteer in our homeland,” another added, their voice brimming with enthusiasm and pride.

Their commitment to serving their community was palpable, reflecting a deep-seated joy in being able to contribute positively to their country.

Irene, an ICEJ colleague, also was buoyed by the experience.

“After sorting peppers and delicate tomatoes, then packing these wonderfully aromatic gifts in bags to hand out, it felt like preparing a special blessing for a truly special people,” she said.

Indeed, the Lord calls Israel “a special treasure” in Deuteronomy 7:6.

As we neared the completion of our tasks, Keren, the volunteer coordinator, approached us with heartfelt gratitude.

“There’s no one like you,” she insisted. “I sent a message for urgent need for volunteers, and you came. Thank you so much!”

These words of appreciation, uttered at the end of an exhausting yet immensely fulfilling day, resonated deeply within me. I began to understand why Orna returned time and again to this challenging yet rewarding environment. Inspired by her example, I too felt a stirring within me, knowing that I would gladly embrace this crucible of fire once more.

Please continue supporting the ICEJ in our mission to bless and comfort the people of Israel through projects offering a future and hope to those in need. Donate today at: give.icej.org/givinghope

Photos: ICEJ