National Service Organizations Warn of Mass Volunteer Walkout Over Budget Crisis

Leaders of National Service organizations have issued an urgent warning to Israeli ministers, stating that approximately 4,000 female volunteers may cease their service immediately after the Sukkot holiday due to a severe budget crisis. The CEOs of these organizations sent an unprecedented letter to Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Minister of Settlement and National Missions Orit Strock, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

The letter warns that if an immediate budgetary solution is not found within 24 hours, the activities of thousands of National Service volunteers will be halted. These volunteers have already begun their service year in educational frameworks, special education, communication settings, and other support systems. According to the warning, the volunteers will not return to their posts after the Sukkot break and will not receive their stipends.

The organization leaders highlighted that the budget crisis affecting educational positions has been known for about eight months, yet the problem remains unresolved despite the start of the current service year. They hold the responsible ministers solely accountable for finding an immediate solution and preventing the disruption of the National Service system.

The letter was signed by Eran Volek, CEO of "Bat Ami"; Yitzhak Lange, CEO of "Chibur Chadash"; and Yael Falkovsky, CEO of "Shilo."