Published June 4, 2025, 10:12 PM IST
In a powerful show of support for Israel’s olim (immigrant) population, Welfare and Social Services Minister Yaakov Margi declared on Wednesday that Olim must be treated as “first-class citizens,” calling for a proactive, compassionate, and well-coordinated government response to their needs.
The minister made the remarks during a visit to the Jerusalem headquarters of Chaim V’Chessed, the noted nonprofit organization that provides critical assistance to English-speaking Olim navigating Israel’s often complex bureaucratic systems. The visit underscored growing recognition within the government of the unique challenges facing immigrants – and the essential role of organizations helping to address them.
“Olim should not just be supported – they should be prioritized,” said Minister Margi. “They must be treated as first-class citizens in every respect.”
During the Wednesday tour, Chaim V’Chessed CEO Paysach Freedman provided an overview of the organization’s work, which spans a wide array of services – from healthcare and special education guidance to interfacing with national insurance and welfare authorities. Margi lauded the organization’s comprehensive approach, noting its alignment with the Welfare and Social Services Ministry’s own mission to ensure equitable access to social services.
“My ministry is responsible not only for traditional welfare cases but also for a broad spectrum of social support,” Margi explained. “This includes benefits for people with disabilities, children with special needs, and other vulnerable populations. When such families arrive in Israel as immigrants, the complexity of their challenges is magnified.”
Minister Margi stressed the importance of outreach and culturally sensitive service delivery for immigrants who may not speak Hebrew or understand their rights within the system. “We have a duty to make these services accessible,” he said, “especially when families are grappling with both special needs and the stress of immigration.”
Chaim V’Chessed has become an indispensable partner in that effort. The organization routinely assists families with complicated cases, providing hands-on support, advocacy, and translation of bureaucratic processes into clear, actionable steps. Its staff members are known for guiding new olim through Israel’s medical, educational, and social welfare systems with care and professionalism.
The minister also addressed the broader geopolitical climate, noting that a global rise in antisemitism is fueling increased Aliyah. “We are already witnessing a significant uptick in immigration from countries where Jews no longer feel safe,” Margi said. “That makes it even more urgent to ensure that our social infrastructure is prepared, responsive, and welcoming.”
He concluded his visit with a pledge to strengthen support for Olim across all government sectors. “We are committed to removing bureaucratic barriers and expanding access to vital services,” Margi affirmed. “Every immigrant should be given the opportunity not only to settle, but to thrive in Israel.”
