Reserve Soldier Families Face Heavy Economic Burden Ahead of School Year in Israel

A new study by the Friendship Foundation and GeoCartography reveals significant financial strain on Israeli families with reserve soldiers, especially as the new school year approaches. About half of these families experience employment difficulties due to extended reserve duty, with 60% of parents feeling that the high cost of living hampers their ability to provide quality education for their children. The research surveyed 802 adults, including 300 who served in reserves in the past three years, highlighting that 51% of parents in reserve families are highly stressed about upcoming school expenses.

The study found a 55% increase in household expenses linked to reserve service, notably in transportation (30%) and ready-made food or deliveries (29%). Other increased costs include medical or emotional treatments (23%), personal equipment for reserve duty (21%), childcare or babysitting (18%), and home maintenance (14%). Employment impacts are also significant: 50% of reserve families reported job-related harm, including reduced promotion opportunities (18%), lower pay or hours (18%), diminished workplace status (16%), damage to self-employment (11%), and even layoffs (7%).

Economic challenges extend beyond reserve families, with 23% of parents nationwide unable to afford all school supplies, 58% stressed over expenses, and 45% feeling their financial situation affects their children’s education. Routine purchases are also cut back, with 77% of parents reducing clothing purchases for their children due to financial reasons, rising to 79% among reserve families.

Additionally, 60% of parents report their children face emotional or social difficulties related to the school year, including academic concerns (34%), social challenges (33%), discomfort with school staff or environment (22%), adjustment to routine (21%), and lack of supplies (12%). To assist, the Friendship Foundation will distribute 10,000 vouchers worth 300 shekels each for the Kravitz retail chain to support children and teens.

Yael Eckstein, president of the Friendship Foundation, emphasized the importance of supporting reserve soldier families, stating, "This is our way to tell them they are not alone, backed by millions of Israel supporters worldwide."