Aid Group Helps Reserve Soldiers, Self-Employed Cope with Post-War Financial Strain
The financial fallout from the recent conflict continues to impact many Israeli families, even as a semblance of routine returns. Israel Liebman, CEO of the "Mekimi" organization, described in an interview with Arutz 7 how reservists and self-employed individuals are struggling to regain financial stability after the fighting subsided. Many were too preoccupied during the initial stages of the war to properly assess their financial situations, but are now facing the consequences.
A significant challenge lies in the transition for reservists returning to civilian life. While they received regular payments during their service, many reservists' wives experienced reduced work hours, creating a financial gap during the interim period between military duty and resuming normal life. This period often prompts individuals to seek career, personal, or ideological changes, which can incur substantial expenses.
Mekimi offers a comprehensive support system that goes beyond mere financial data, aiming to understand the complex experiences of families. "We invest a lot of time in meetings to try and solve the problem from the root," Liebman explained. "The idea is to understand the situation not just financially, but what the family is going through, to walk with them step by step and bring them to stability."
Additionally, Liebman warned against risky investments in real estate and finance, particularly among those seeking new financial avenues. He recounted a case where an individual lost half a million shekels, including funds from loans, after a trusted acquaintance from their synagogue recommended a disastrous investment. Liebman stressed the importance of investing in familiar and understood areas, rather than relying on personal relationships.
With the upcoming holidays, the increased expenses pose an additional burden on families striving for financial balance. Mekimi is seeking public donations, particularly through the "pidyon kaparot" (atonement sacrifice) funds, to provide targeted support during this critical period and help maintain financial stability.
