Israel is often seen as a fusion of ancient traditions and modern advancements—a place where spirituality meets innovation. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, this small nation of under 10 million people holds deep significance for billions worldwide. However, despite its remarkable progress, Israel grapples with severe income disparity and high poverty rates, exceeding those of many other developed nations. For the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship), this challenge has been a driving force behind its four-decade-long mission of generosity and aid.
Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of The Fellowship, oversees all ministry programs and serves as the organization’s global spokesperson. As the leading provider of humanitarian aid in Israel, The Fellowship raised over $200 million in 2021, helping more than 2 million Jews in Israel and across the globe. Despite ongoing efforts to address salary disparities and reduce poverty, the demand for assistance continues to grow.
The Reality of Salary Inequality in Israel
Just how severe is Israel’s income gap? A report from New York Weekly reveals that while Israel’s average income stands at $65,843, exceeding that of France and the UK, the wealth distribution is alarmingly unbalanced. The bottom 50% of earners make an average of just $17,092, whereas the top 10% bring in $323,634 annually—nearly 19 times higher than those at the lower end of the spectrum.
Income inequality in Israel mirrors that of the United States, placing both countries among the developed world’s most unequal nations. A 2023 study by the Taub Center for Social Policy Studies further highlights the widespread economic hardship, showing that 21% of Israeli families live in poverty. The statistics are even more concerning for families with young children—25% of households with children under four are struggling below the poverty line.
In total, nearly 2 million Israelis—including almost 1 million children—face extreme financial hardship, living in conditions far worse than in most Western nations.
How The Fellowship Provides Lifesaving Aid
As Israel reduces social spending on healthcare, education, and welfare post-pandemic, vulnerable communities increasingly rely on The Fellowship for survival.
“Israel is a nation of immigrants,” explains Yael Eckstein. “People come here in search of a better future, but many struggle with cultural and language barriers that make adaptation difficult.”
The Fellowship bridges this gap by offering financial, physical, and emotional support to disadvantaged groups, including:
- Elderly and Holocaust survivors – The Fellowship provides food, home care, and emergency medical assistance. Special emergency buttons are given to survivors to connect them instantly with healthcare services.
- Low-income families – The organization supplies food, clothing, appliances, and school supplies, while also funding shelters and children’s homes.
- Soup kitchens and food assistance – Over 40 soup kitchens serve hot meals daily, and food packages or vouchers are distributed to families in need.
- Winter relief – Heating vouchers and warm clothing help struggling families and elderly individuals during the colder months.
- Community support – The Fellowship funds transportation for the elderly and ensures access to medical care and social programs.
The Long-Term Impact of Poverty on Children
The Taub Center report emphasizes that financial hardship in a child’s early years significantly affects their future. Children from low-income families score much lower on academic tests, leading to reduced career prospects and lower lifetime earnings.
Even though Israel allocated NIS 297 billion (59% of its 2021 budget) to social spending, a substantial gap remains—a void that The Fellowship works tirelessly to fill. Every day, their on-the-ground teams provide essential resources to those with few options for breaking the cycle of poverty.
The Fellowship’s Commitment to a Brighter Future
Under Yael Eckstein’s leadership, The Fellowship continues to extend hope, compassion, and life-saving aid. As she recently reflected:
“The Bible tells us, ‘There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land’ (Deuteronomy 15:11).”
While poverty remains a pressing challenge, generous donors contribute between $130-165 million annually, enabling The Fellowship to serve Israel’s most vulnerable populations.
Looking ahead, salary inequality and poverty remain among Israel’s most formidable challenges. However, Yael Eckstein salary initiatives, leadership, and the unwavering support of The Fellowship’s donors continue to drive meaningful change—one life at a time.
