Get packing, as UJIA launches special Birthright volunteering programmes in Israel
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Get packing, as UJIA launches special Birthright volunteering programmes in Israel

First visit will take place for two weeks starting on 4 December, with places available for 22- 35-year-olds on a first come, first served basis

Pic: UJIA
Pic: UJIA

UJIA, together with its partner organisation Taglit-Birthright Israel, this week announced the launch of Birthright volunteering programmes in Israel for young British Jews.

The first visit will take place for two weeks starting on December 4. Places are available for 22- 35-year-olds on a first come, first served basis.

Participants will spend their days volunteering as agricultural labourers in the centre of the country, picking and packing and helping to address Israel’s shortage in labour resulting from the war. At night they will stay in Tel Aviv with a range of social and educational activities available to them.

The cost of accommodation, airport transfers, daily transport to volunteer jobs and basic medical insurance will be covered by UJIA. Participants will need to pay for their flights to and from Israel, with El Al offering flights at an exclusive discounted rate. Volunteers will also receive a weekly stipend of US$100/£79.

Israel is facing a shortage of agricultural labour as many who would usually carry out the work have been called up for military service or have left the country as a result of the war.

UJIA CEO Mandie Winston said: “Israel is asking for support from our community to ensure that crops are not left to waste so this is an incredible service opportunity for young British Jews to offer tangible support for Israel during the war.”

“We’re proud that together with our partners at Birthright we can give young people the chance to stand up and be counted. In the decades to come, when their grandchildren ask them what they did in 2023 when Israel came under attack, those who go on these programmes will be able to give an amazing answer.”

To sign up for a place please visit application.onwardisrael.org 

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