Winter brings not only rain and cold but also real dangers for homeless individuals and those without shelter. To address these challenges, the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security launched an emergency response today (Sunday) aimed at ensuring that no one remains exposed to the cold. As part of this initiative, local authorities have been informed of the option to provide homeless individuals with lodging in hotels and motels, with all costs covered by the ministry.
Immediate and Cost-Free Assistance
According to the Ministry of Welfare’s guidelines, homeless individuals are entitled to hotel accommodation costing up to NIS 468 per night for up to three nights. This period can be extended with special approval from the supervisory authority. Local authorities are not required to bear the cost of this solution or demand payment from those receiving the assistance. The accommodation will be provided in hotels that have agreements with the authorities and are located nearby.
Public Awareness Saves Lives
Minister of Welfare Ya’akov Margi emphasized the importance of public involvement in preventing deaths due to cold weather:
“We have previously witnessed situations where homeless individuals froze to death. As a society, we bear the responsibility to ensure that no one in Israel remains exposed to the dangers of cold and rain.”
The minister urged the public to report anyone in need of assistance to local authorities’ hotlines at 106 or the Ministry of Welfare hotline at 118.
