Israeli Volunteer Group "Yedidim" Sued for 2.5 Million Shekels Over Donation Texts

Amit Vorghaft has filed a class-action lawsuit seeking 2.5 million shekels against the volunteer organization "Yedidim," alleging that he received an unsolicited donation request via SMS after utilizing their roadside assistance services. Vorghaft claims the message violated telecommunications law as he had not consented to receive such communications.

"Yedidim," which boasts approximately 65,000 volunteers nationwide, provides free emergency roadside assistance, including help with breakdowns, dead batteries, and child lockouts. During wartime, volunteers also assisted with securing unsafe bomb shelters. The organization fears the lawsuit could significantly harm its operations.

Vorghaft's suit, filed in Ashkelon, stems from a similar incident in 2022 where he received a donation request after seeking help. That case concluded with "Yedidim" agreeing to a 1,000 shekel settlement. Vorghaft again sought assistance from "Yedidim" two years later, leading to the current legal action.

Meanwhile, a group of drivers who have benefited from "Yedidim's" services, led by former Knesset member Abir Kara, have publicly opposed the lawsuit. They state the suit does not represent their views and that they received valuable, free assistance without harm.

"Yedidim" hopes the court will dismiss the case, warning that a substantial payout could limit their ability to help tens of thousands of Israelis daily. Vorghaft's lawyers, however, argue their client has previously achieved significant societal benefits through similar lawsuits, stopping improper practices and recovering illegally collected funds. They emphasize the suit targets the alleged widespread, non-consensual distribution of promotional messages, not the volunteers' actions, and cite instances of "Yedidim" allegedly continuing to send donation requests and even commercial advertisements, contradicting the organization's claim of ceasing such practices two years prior.