The war has taken a heavy toll on Israel’s economy and on the lives of countless Israelis.  Evacuees, reservists and their families, wounded individuals and small business owners suddenly found themselves without work, income, or stability.

In response, JUF has partnered with leading organizations to strengthen Israel’s economic resilience, supporting systemic, long-term recovery efforts that go beyond immediate relief. Through these partnerships, JUF helps develop sustainable employment opportunities, rebuild local economies and provide holistic assistance to families and small businesses working to regain their footing while also contributing to the broader rehabilitation of affected communities and municipalities.

Here is some of what we do:

JDC Israel Emergency Response: Increasing Economic Resilience at the Individual Employee Level

JUF’s $2.5 million emergency grant supports JDC’s comprehensive efforts in northern Israel to assist thousands of Israelis through vocational training, job placement and employment rehabilitation, helping individuals and communities rebuild their independence and regain economic security and stability. 

Building on this foundation, jobseekers are provided with professional training, employment counseling and trauma-informed support, while employers receive dedicated guidance and tools to adapt their hiring practices, welcome new populations into the workforce and learn how to integrate individuals coping with trauma or disability. This dual approach strengthens both sides of the employment equation, empowering workers and preparing employers to create a more inclusive and resilient job market.

JDC’s recovery model also extends beyond individuals to entire communities, particularly in 43 towns and kibbutzim near the Gaza border. Recognizing that economic renewal is inherently collective, local employment coordinators work closely with each community to map its needs, identify new opportunities and support residents in developing both personal and communal employment plans. By leveraging local assets and fostering collaboration, this community-based approach helps residents not only return to work but actively participate in rebuilding their community’s shared future.

In 2025, JDC’s programs, supported by JUF and additional partners, assisted approximately 4,000 Israelis in regaining their livelihoods and independence.

Fresh Start – Economic Reconstruction for Small Businesses

Fresh Start is an Israeli nonprofit organization specializing in the economic recovery of families and small business owners facing financial crisis. The organization develops tailored recovery plans that combine business mentoring, legal and financial counseling, debt management and household budgeting support. 

Being the first Federation to provide significant support to Fresh Start after October 7, JUF’s emergency grant enabled the organization to deliver intensive mentoring and financial guidance to 160 small businesses, surpassing its initial target. 

The initial grant from JUF Chicago served as a major catalyst for Fresh Start’s growth, enabling the organization to gain national recognition, attract additional partners and funders and significantly expand its program to reach hundreds of additional small businesses and households across Israel. Encouraged by the program’s remarkable success, JUF also provided an additional grant to help Fresh Start continue and broaden its work to extend support to IDF reservists whose livelihoods were severely affected by prolonged military service.