Israeli Charity 'Makimi' Helps Families Overcome Debt and Rebuild Lives

The Israeli non-profit organization Makimi, established 16 years ago, provides professional guidance and community support to families facing severe financial distress and overwhelming debt. The organization emphasizes that economic crises often extend beyond financial numbers, impacting family well-being, relationships, and security, especially in the wake of the recent war which exacerbated income reductions and business losses for many.

Makimi's approach involves more than just debt settlement. Professional counselors work with families to conduct a thorough assessment of their financial situation, implement changes in spending habits, and gradually pay off debts. In one case, a family with approximately 350,000 shekels in debt, including from the grey market, was guided by counselor Tamar Michaelson through a multi-year process that led to debt resolution and the restoration of their ability to manage their lives and build a stable future.

Another case, managed by counselor Gilad Neuman, involved a family whose business debts prevented the wife from investing in her own enterprise. Makimi facilitated the husband's business expansion to increase income and secured donations for the wife's business marketing and operations, alongside professional advice. This intervention helped the family reduce pressure, increase revenue, and return to a path of growth.

Israel Leibman, CEO of Makimi, stated that the organization aims to do more than just cover immediate debts. They provide ongoing professional accompaniment, develop practical financial plans, assist in increasing income, settling debts, and changing financial behaviors. When necessary, Makimi mobilizes extended family and the community to support fundraising efforts, with the ultimate goal of enabling families to not only survive crises but to build a stable economic future.

This year, the "Pidyon Kaparot" initiative is contributing to Makimi, supporting families in overcoming crises and starting the new year with hope. The organization highlights that even in supportive communities, families can fall into hardship, and the strength of these communities lies in ensuring no family faces such challenges alone.