In recent years, tens of thousands of Jewish families from around the world have arrived in Israel. Following traumatic events like October 7th, many felt an inner calling to be part of the nation and the state, and to contribute to its strength in a time of crisis. Many were motivated by Zionism and a genuine desire to give their children a safe and hopeful future. This wave of Aliyah intensified due to a worrying rise in global antisemitism, from anti-Israel protests and attacks on students at universities to assaults on synagogues from Australia to Europe, the U.S., and South America.
According to data from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, between 2023 and 2025, tens of thousands of new Olim arrived, with significant numbers from Russia, Ukraine, Brazil, Argentina, France, the U.S., and other Diaspora countries. These figures underscore the deep desire of families to connect their lives to the homeland and experience belonging to the Jewish state.
Israel: A New Home Full of Hope and Challenges
For new Olim, Israel is a home of promise and new beginnings, but also of immense challenges. Families face social, economic, and cultural obstacles. The absorption process can be an identity crisis, disconnecting from a familiar community, learning a new language, adapting to local norms, and navigating a complex economic reality.
The "HABAYTA" Organization: A Welcoming Community for Every New Oleh
This is where the HABAYTA organization comes in. Since its founding in 2009, it has established over 40 new Oleh communities across Israel, from Kiryat Shmona to Arad. To date, more than 80,000 people, including families, seniors, and children, have participated in its activities.
HABAYTA's model is based on unique community absorption: established Oleh communities volunteer to embrace new families. The volunteers know the families’ language and culture, their difficulties, and the solutions for full integration. Every new family gets a personal connection to an established family and the support of the wider community, receiving help in social, economic, educational, and emotional matters.
This model creates a two-way impact: established Olim contribute to the local community and active civil society, while new Olim gain an extended family and a supportive community that helps them fully integrate.
Daily Support and Emergency Response
HABAYTA provides daily guidance, including connecting families to a warm community, assistance with economic integration, explaining life in Israel, help with bureaucracy, cultural and holiday events, and Hebrew classes. Activities are led by coordinators who speak the families’ language, with weekly meetings and national gatherings that connect the different communities.
During the "Swords of Iron" war, HABAYTA's model proved its strength. Communities in Karmiel, Nof HaGalil, Safed, and Caesarea prepared thousands of meals for IDF soldiers. In Arad, new Olim assisted evacuated families. Many adopted lone soldiers from their home countries, offering them a warm home on weekends. Spanish-speaking grandmothers in Karmiel knitted hats and scarves for soldiers. Volunteers, some of whom were recent Olim themselves, became givers, assisting elderly families and others who were distressed. A seven-language emergency hotline handled thousands of calls and provided emotional and practical support.
Stories of Resilience
Michaela, who made Aliyah from Russia to Sderot a month before the war, recalls: "HABAYTA volunteers spoke to us in Russian, explained the situation, and helped us evacuate. Our lives were saved."
The Israelov family from Kyiv found similar support in Kiryat Shmona during rocket attacks from Lebanon. An American family in Beit Shemesh, who lost their son Benjamin in Gaza, found comfort in the warm embrace of the HABAYTA community. At a conference, Benjamin’s mother said: "Benjamin did not fall, he rose. He ascended to the heavens."
From War to Growth: Expanding the Circle of Support
The power of a community is amplified in times of crisis, and many from different cities are reaching out to join HABAYTA’s network. We are working to expand our communities and help thousands of new Olim this year, connecting them with a warm community in Israel even before they arrive.
HABAYTA operates on a limited budget, relying mainly on government funding, yet strives to expand the community absorption model to more cities across Israel. The annual cost to run a community that supports dozens of families is about $100,000.
New Olim needing support or those wishing to assist HABAYTA can contact us at: habayta@habayta.org.il.
HABAYTA: Because every new Oleh deserves a family, a community, and a home.
Shana Tova to the people of Israel and to Jewish communities around the world!
Key Facts on HABAYTA's Activity
• Over 45 communities across Israel, from Safed to Arad
• Over 10,000 families participate regularly
• 80,000 total participants annually
• Operates over 20 Hebrew ulpans
• Works with more than 50 schools in Zionism programs with children of Olim and their peers
• Assists about 200 new Oleh soldiers
This article was written in cooperation with HABAYTA