Helping the Refugee Community During Israel's COVID-19 Crisis

COVID-19 is affecting lives across the world. But for some it will hit extra hard.

While Israel is dealing with the crisis well, the community of people seeking asylum and refugees in Israel – who are without legal status do not have the same basic safety net as the rest of Israelis – need our help.

A huge number of people seeking asylum in Israel work in the hospitality industry, in hotels, restaurants and cafes. Many have lost their jobs or been placed on unpaid leave.

They have no kuppat cholim ('health insurance') and no bituach leumi ('national insurance') and are therefore not eligible for any unemployment support from the government.

With most of the community working in minimum wage jobs, most families have little to no savings and live paycheck to paycheck. Except that the next paycheck is not going to come.

100% of donations made through this page will be given to the organisation ASSAF and towards immediate basic needs like food, toiletries, nappies and baby milk formula.

In addition, NIF Australia will be granting emergency funds to other work in this sector, including the crisis intervention clinic at the Hotline for Refugees and Migrants and a social worker and coordinator to help distribute the material aid.