- Israel is the poorest country in the Western world. While the poverty rate among adults and children in developed and industrialized countries (OECD) stands at 11%, in Israel 1,773,400 people (24.4%), 433,300 families (19.8%), and 837,300 children (35.3%) live in poverty.
- Poverty Line – Per individual – NIS 2,413; Per couple – NIS 3,861; Per family with 4 members – NIS 6,178.
- Lack of Food Security – (Inability to ensure the basic nutritional needs for a balanced and healthy life) is the most severe sign of poverty. According to statistics of the Israel National Insurance Institute, 19% of Israeli families live without food security, and 11% of these families live with a severe lack of food security. According to data of Latet, the numbers are approximately 223,000 families and 530,280 children suffering from lack of food security.
- Children of Poverty – 5% collect donations, 21% experience days without food, and 8% steal food.
- Education – 71% do not have books or educational materials, 19% are sent to work in order to provide for their families.
- Health – 64% forego medications, 91% of the children do not receive dental treatment.
- Food Security – 36% of the needy experience hunger, 59% of the children forego meals.
- Employment – 70% of the poor at employable ages are employed, 37% of the employed do not receive social benefits.
- Economic Barriers – 41% have restricted bank accounts, 56% were turned down for loans.
- Housing – 52% were disconnected from vital home services, 71% worry that they will be evicted from their apartments.
