Israel finally passed its annual budget for the first time in over three years this November.
The 2022 budget was narrowly approved with a vote of 59 to 56. The NIS 452.5 billion ($145.2 billion) budget received a majority coalition vote beating its March deadline.
But the celebrations surrounding the event may have been premature. That’s because although it worked in the favor of some, for others, it made a dire financial situation even worse.
That’s why the budget was harshly criticized by several lawmakers who claim that some of the tax increases in the budget will hurt their communities.
Knesset member, Uri Maklev, charged that it “imposes economic cuts on the public.”
He may be referring to the new budget’s increased tax hikes for basic food staples like rice and sugar.
Meanwhile, Israel is still reeling from the economic ramifications of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Even today, many businesses are on the brink of collapse with new Green Passport restrictions that are preventing some 55% of Israelis from patronizing many stores. The budget’s tax hikes on basic items like dishware, gasoline, and soft drinks will increase the number of families suffering from food insecurity as household budgets will now have fewer funds allocated for food.
Luckily for them, help is available. That’s because Meir Panim is working around the clock to provide warm meals to Israel’s needy through its Restaurant-Style Soup Kitchens and other social services.
They do it with dedication and a smile, but they can’t do it alone. That’s why they are currently collecting donations. They are asking friends of Israel worldwide to chip in for the cause.
That’s because more families are already being affected by the new budget, which means that Meir Panim’s demand to buy food for them is increasing.
If so, please donate to Meir Panim and help feed an Israeli family. Contribute whatever you can today, to make a difference tomorrow.
