Israel's Poor Face Significant Food Shortfall Ahead of Holidays

As the Jewish New Year approaches, new research highlights the widening economic disparities in Israel, revealing that many families reliant on aid struggle to afford basic food supplies. A study by the Latet organization, conducted by SFI Group, found a monthly deficit of 1,166 shekels (approximately $300 USD) between the minimum cost of a food basket and what supported families actually spend on groceries, amounting to nearly 14,000 shekels annually.

The minimum monthly cost for a household food basket in Israel is estimated at 3,928 shekels for 2026, an increase from 3,747 shekels in 2025. For families receiving assistance, actual food expenditures rose by 8.9% in the past year, from 2,536 shekels in 2025 to 2,762 shekels in 2026. Despite this increase, their spending remains significantly below the essential food basket cost.

This gap, according to the study, forces supported families to compromise on both the quantity and quality of food needed for a balanced diet. Concurrently, demand for food assistance has surged by 32% leading up to the holidays.

Eran Wintrob, CEO of Latet, stated that the situation is exacerbated by the "Long War," the high cost of living, and a lack of systemic government action to reduce poverty and food insecurity. He noted a stark contrast in Israeli society between those traveling abroad and those seeking food aid. Wintrob urged that combating poverty and food insecurity become a national policy, not just a response to distress, and called on political parties to commit to operational policy changes in their platforms for the upcoming elections.

Latet and other aid organizations are appealing to the public for donations of holiday meals to support families in need, fostering a sense of care and mutual responsibility. Yaron Neudorfer, CEO of SFI Group, emphasized that the 1,166 shekel monthly gap reflects a lack of economic ability, not consumption habits, leading to daily sacrifices of essential food. He stressed that policymakers must use these findings to ensure access to healthy food for all Israeli households.