Student Villages Offer Subsidized Housing and Scholarships Amid High Demand
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Student villages run by the Aylim organization are highly sought after for their subsidized rent, scholarships, and community involvement, with monthly costs ranging from 850 to 1200 shekels. Hundreds of students are on waiting lists due to the high demand. These villages offer a unique living experience that combines academic studies with significant volunteer work and social contribution, attracting a diverse population committed to national values.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Student villages offer subsidized housing for 850-1200 shekels monthly, plus scholarships.
- Hundreds of students are on waiting lists for the popular Aylim-operated villages.
- Residents must complete significant volunteer hours as part of their commitment.
- The villages foster community and social engagement for students across Israel.
- Aylim has housed approximately 5,800 students since its program began.
Student villages operated by the Aylim organization are experiencing exceptionally high demand due to subsidized rent, scholarships, community life, and social engagement opportunities. These villages, located from Eilat in the south to Metula in the north, offer subsidized housing for students, with rent for a two or three-room apartment ranging from 850 to 1200 shekels per student per month. In addition to affordable housing, students receive scholarships and participate in community activities.
Participation in organized volunteer work is a significant draw. For instance, students at the Sderot village are required to complete 140 hours of volunteer work annually, contributing to community development and local needs. The Sderot village, established after Operation Protective Edge, currently houses 125 students and plans to expand to 170. Some students who live in rented apartments nearby also participate in the village's activities.
Despite the appeal, waiting lists for these villages are long and dynamic. Aylim estimates that hundreds of young people may be on waiting lists this year, depending on available resources for housing and scholarships. The organization emphasizes that admission is based on a commitment to social action and community involvement rather than demographic affiliation.
Students like Shahhar Rafeld, who studies social work and lives in the Sderot village, highlight the sense of community and purpose found in these villages. Nir Sharf, a film student at Sapir Academic College, chose to live in the Sderot student village because he believes in Aylim's mission and seeks a framework for social contribution beyond his studies. He also holds two part-time jobs and works as a barista while pursuing his degree.
Since its inception around 2002, Aylim's student villages have hosted approximately 5,800 individuals, fostering a diverse community that includes students from various backgrounds and academic disciplines, all united by a commitment to social and community action, settlement, and love for the country.