Food Aid Demand Doubles Ahead of Jewish New Year Amid Rising Costs

The Israeli non-profit "Pתחון לב" (Pitchon Lev) is distributing 24,000 food parcels to families in need ahead of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This represents a 100% increase in demand compared to a typical month, forcing the organization to extend its distribution over two days.

Alongside the surge in requests for aid, Pitchon Lev highlighted a significant increase in the cost of food itself. The organization stated that the price of their food parcels has risen by approximately 20% over the past two years, while criticizing the government for "continuing to ignore" the issue.

Pitchon Lev also expressed disappointment with elected officials, noting that despite invitations to visit distribution centers and witness the reality of struggling families, no Knesset members attended. "A month before elections, when parties seek public trust, it is appropriate to ask: Where are the social programs? Who intends to provide a real response to poverty and food security in Israel?" the organization questioned.

The organization's comments come amid concerns about the rising cost of living and economic hardship in Israel, with an estimated 2 million people living in poverty.