Making aliyah to Israel is among the most transformative and courageous decisions a person can make. Leaving behind everything familiar - family, friends, language, and culture - and starting anew in Israel is both a dream come true and an immense challenge. For many olim, the transition is not only logistical but deeply emotional.
That’s where Habayta steps in. Founded in 2009, this Israeli nonprofit has one mission: to help olim integrate successfully into Israeli society while preserving the traditions and culture of the country of origin. Over the past 15 years, Habayta has established more than 40 olim communities across the country, serving over 80,000 people from around the world.
Among them are eight vibrant English-speaking communities in Safed, Tel Aviv, Beit Shemesh, Jerusalem, Neve Aliza–Karnei Shomron, Netanya, Carmi Gat, and Caesarea. Each one offers regular social gatherings, educational workshops, sports activities, children’s programs, Shabbat dinners, and cultural events - all designed to make olim feel at home.
A Community-Based Model That Works
What sets Habayta apart is its community-led absorption model. Every community is guided by veteran olim who remember their own struggles and are eager to help newcomers. These mentors provide both practical and emotional support - from navigating Israel’s bureaucracy to coping with culture shock and homesickness.
Each new family or individual is personally connected with a veteran family, creating a sense of extended family and belonging. “At Habayta, we build a unique community framework based on a simple but powerful principle,” explain Netanel Rotenberg and Sephy Hoter, Habayta’s co-directors. “Olim who have already gone through the absorption process guide and support new olim. They understand the fears, the challenges, and the questions that come with building a new life here. When someone tells you, ‘I’ve been there too,’ it changes everything. That’s what turns Israel from a destination into a home.”
Voices from the Community
For Philippe, an ole from Brazil, Habayta was a lifeline.
“I arrived alone, with no family, during the war,” he recalls. “Through Habayta, I felt a true sense of belonging. That feeling of community was exactly what I needed.”
Rebecca, a new ola from the United States, echoes the sentiment.
“There are so many meaningful activities and trips. In the Habayta community in Netanya, I feel like we’re one big family. I’m not alone - everyone helps each other.”
Expanding as Aliyah Rises
As antisemitism rises globally and more English-speaking Jews consider aliyah, Habayta’s English-speaking communities are preparing for growth. Cities across Israel have approached the organization requesting help to launch new olim communities.
With limited government funding, Habayta relies heavily on philanthropic support to sustain and expand its work. Operating a vibrant olim community cost roughly $100,000 a year, covering community coordinators, events, educational materials, and emergency assistance.
Habayta’s vision is simple: every oleh in Israel should have access to a warm, supportive community that eases the challenges of integration and fosters a sense of belonging.
Strength in Times of Crisis
The recent Iron Swords War proved the resilience of Habayta’s model. In cities such as Carmiel, Nof HaGalil, Safed, and Caesarea, olim communities prepared a lot of meals for IDF soldiers. In Arad, new olim volunteered with evacuated families, bringing comfort to children and adults.
Many olim “adopted” lone soldiers from their countries of origin, offering them home-cooked meals and family warmth on weekends. In Carmiel, a group of Spanish-speaking grandmothers knitted scarves and hats for soldiers. Even olim who had just arrived in Israel became active volunteers - guiding elderly evacuees in their native languages, translating instructions, and connecting them to host families.
Habayta also operated a multilingual emergency hotline, handling a lot of of calls and providing emotional and practical support in seven languages.
Finding a True Home
In the end, Habayta represents more than just an organization - it’s a bridge between strangers and neighbors, between challenge and belonging. It’s the friend who drives you to the hospital when you don’t yet understand the Israeli healthcare system. It’s the veteran oleh who explains local habits with humor and empathy. And it’s the community that celebrates your child’s birthday when your extended family is far away.
Olim seeking support - or anyone wishing to join Habayta’s growing network - can reach out via the Habayta website or the Habayta hotline 073-3703333 or by WhatsApp +97258-5344568.
This article was written in cooperation with Habayta