In light of the worsening economic situation due to the Swords of Iron operation and the upcoming return to schools, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) and Kravitz have joined forces for the fourth consecutive year for the "Returning to School with Friendship" initiative, benefiting approximately 12,000 students with a total of over $1 million.
Due to the "Swords of Iron" operation, which has displaced tens of thousands from the north and south and worsened Israel's economic situation, the "Returning to School with Friendship" initiative is returning for its fourth year. As part of the initiative, the IFCJ and Kravitz will collaborate to provide new backpacks and school supplies from Kravitz stores to families in need.
This initiative, which has also been driven by social disparities and the rising cost of living in recent years, will support around 12,000 students from grades 1 to 12 across the country. Each student will receive a gift card worth 300 shekels, donated by the IFCJ. The total budget for this effort exceeds $1 million. Among the beneficiaries are over 1,000 evacuees from Kiryat Shmona and Shlomi, and over 2,000 from areas under threat, including Hurfeish, Ofakim, Netivot, and the Merhavim Regional Council.
The joint effort by the IFCJ and Kravitz aims to enable thousands of students in Israel to start the new school year with joy, equipped with new, high-quality school supplies from Kravitz stores. This initiative will help them begin the upcoming school year on the right foot, with the tools to succeed in their studies and build a future of hope and prosperity. The distribution of gift cards will be carried out through 24 non-profit organizations.
Yael Eckstein, President of the IFCJ, stated, "The ongoing conflict has created significant economic uncertainty for many. The IFCJ is committed year-round to assisting families in need, and even more so since the war, particularly for evacuees facing numerous challenges.
As the school year approaches, every child deserves a fresh start. That's why we see great importance in helping around 12,000 children acquire the supplies they need for school. Thanks to our donors, lovers of Israel from around the world, they can begin the upcoming year on the right foot, and we will continue to stand by them to help with additional needs."
Maor Artzi, VP of Retail at Kravitz, said, "I am proud to collaborate for the fourth consecutive year with the IFCJ to help children and families in need start the new school year with a smile. This year, during the days of the conflict, our cooperation holds even greater significance than in regular times, as we must not turn our backs on vulnerable populations and ensure they are not forgotten even now."