The estimates refer only to the 71 organizations that have requested financial participation from the Ministry of Welfare. They will distribute a food basket of matzot, wine/grape juice and basic foodstuffs at an average value of 500 shekels - more than 1/7 of the minimum wage. In 2005, some 654,000 salaried workers earned less than 3,500 shekels.
In addition, many smaller local organizations around the country - unrecognized by the government - distribute money and food packages to needy families and residents.
The number of organizations requesting government participation is less than last year, but the number of families turning to these organizations for help has remained the same.
Deputy Welfare Minister Rabbi Avraham Ravitz (UTJ) praised the associations for their "holy work, in accordance with Jewish tradition... Throughout the generations, those who had worried about those who didn't have, helping them for the Passover holiday. The concept of 'kimcha d'Pischa' [also known as 'maos hittim'] is one of the foundation-stones of the holiday, and during the festive-liturgical Seder meal, we invite everyone who needs to come in and eat with us. These organizations strengthen the unity and solidarity amongst all parts of the nation."
The government will provide only about three million shekels of the required sum, including one million shekels from the Bequests Committee, and 278,000 shekels from charity boxes placed at holy sites around the country. However, the Welfare Ministry emphasizes that it provides almost 3.5 billion shekels per month to needy citizens in other forms. This sum includes well over a billion shekels for the elderly, almost 400 million for unemployment and income supplements, almost the same amount for children's benefits [which all families receive, in accordance with the number of children], over 200 million for single-mother families, and more.