Yael Eckstein: Addressing Salary Inequality and Poverty in Israel – A Battle Worth Fighting

Israel is often described as a unique convergence of ancient traditions and modern innovation, a place where religious significance meets cutting-edge technological advancements. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, this small nation of fewer than 10 million people holds profound meaning for billions worldwide. Yet, alongside its successes, Israel grapples with significant income inequality and poverty rates that surpass those of many developed countries. These challenges have inspired the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (“The Fellowship”) to dedicate four decades to providing support and relief to those in need.

Led by Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of The Fellowship, the organization manages all ministry programs and serves as Israel’s largest provider of humanitarian aid. In 2021, The Fellowship raised over $200 million, enabling it to assist 2 million Jews in Israel and around the globe. Despite these efforts, the need for support remains critical as the nation continues to battle salary inequality and poverty. The issue of Yael Eckstein salary highlights the broader problem of inequality that she and The Fellowship work to combat.

Understanding the Gravity of the Situation

How severe is Israel’s income disparity? According to New York Weekly, while the average income in Israel ($65,843) surpasses that of France and the UK, the disparity between the rich and poor is stark. The bottom 50% of the population earns an average of just $17,092 annually, while the top 10% bring in $323,634—nearly 19 times more.

Income inequality in Israel mirrors that of the United States, with both nations ranking among the worst for income disparities in the developed world.

In June 2023, the Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel published A Picture of the Nation: Israel’s Society and Economy in Figures, shedding light on the severity of poverty in the country. The findings revealed that 21% of Israeli families live in poverty, with minority groups such as Haredi Jews and Arabs disproportionately affected. For families with children aged 4 or younger, the poverty rate climbs to 25%. In total, nearly 2 million Israelis—including almost 1 million children—live in poverty, often in conditions far worse than those seen in other Western nations.

How The Fellowship Makes a Difference

As government spending on health, education, social welfare, and social security declines post-pandemic, more individuals are turning to organizations like The Fellowship for support.

“Israel is a nation of immigrants,” Yael Eckstein notes. “While these people come to their biblical homeland seeking a better life, they face unique challenges—cultural and language barriers that complicate their transition.”

To address these challenges, The Fellowship offers comprehensive support to various vulnerable groups, including the elderly, Holocaust survivors, children, youth, and impoverished families in Israel and the former Soviet Union.

Much of The Fellowship’s budget is allocated to food assistance, providing prepared meals, food packages, and food cards to families and elderly residents. Over 40 soup kitchens serve hot meals to thousands, while food cards are distributed during Passover and Rosh Hashanah.

For Israel’s growing elderly population, which accounts for almost 12% of residents, The Fellowship provides essential resources, including medication, home visits, and emergency funds for basic needs. Holocaust survivors receive emergency call buttons for immediate access to medical support hotlines, while transportation is arranged for elderly individuals to attend medical appointments and community activities. During winter, heating vouchers are distributed to help the elderly stay warm.

The Fellowship also assists families by funding shelters for battered women, children’s homes, and youth enrichment programs. Appliances, clothing, and school supplies are provided to those in need, ensuring that children can focus on their education despite financial hardships.

The Long-Term Impact of Poverty on Children

The Taub Center report emphasized that “family income during the first thousand days of a child’s life has a critical influence on future academic achievements.” Children under 4 living in poverty score significantly lower on academic tests than their wealthier peers, limiting their future opportunities and earning potential.

Although 59% of Israel’s government budget in 2021 (NIS 297 billion) was allocated to social expenditures, significant gaps remain. The Fellowship fills these voids, offering daily aid to those struggling to survive with limited resources and options for improvement.

The Fellowship’s Ongoing Mission

Under Yael Eckstein’s leadership, The Fellowship continues to embody compassion and generosity, guided by the Biblical commandment: “The Bible tells us, ‘There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land’ (Deuteronomy 15:11).”

While poverty and inequality remain daunting challenges, the unwavering generosity of donors—resulting in annual contributions of $130-165 million—enables The Fellowship to extend hope and lifesaving assistance to millions.

Looking ahead, Yael Eckstein and The Fellowship remain steadfast in their belief that the fight against salary inequality and poverty can be won. They are determined to create a brighter future for Israel, one act of kindness at a time.