Migdal Haemek

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Israel).

Migdal Haemek is a city in the upper north of Israel, next to the sea of Galilee. Around 28,000 people live in the city, which is located in the most ethnically diverse district in Israel.The coexistence of the many different ethnic groups in one city repeatedly leads to tense situations and discriminatory practices. This is especially true for the Bedouins, a nomadic Arab tribe whose members live in communities near Migdal Haemek. They suffer from one of the largest unemployment rates in Israel, leading to less opportunities for growth and equality.

Since 1997, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Migdal Haemek.

80%
Of Bedouin tribes live in poverty

Discrimination leads to poverty

The Bedouins are nomadic Arab tribes who have lived in the deserts of Asia and the Middle East for centuries. Today, many have abandoned nomadic traditions to focus on a modern lifestyle while remaining true to their traditional culture. An estimated 50,000 Bedouins live in the northern district where Migdal Haemek is located. Some of them live in government-established Bedouin-only villages, while others live in unrecognised villages, since they are afraid of giving up their traditions. However, 80% of the inhabitants of these illegal villages live in poverty, have a high unemployment rate and only limited access to health care. Children are particularly vulnerable to the lack of health care.

37%
Of Muslims have faced a discriminatory situation

Different ethnic groups

Many cities in Israel, like Migdal Haemek, are home to an eclectic mix of Jews, Arabs, and minorities, which can be further divided into many different ethnic groups. All of them have different traditions and cultures. Sadly, this also creates discrimination and racism between them. This does not only include discriminatory attitudes in social life, but also institutional discrimination, in employment, the media, immigration rights, housing, and legal policies. While 76% of Israeli Jews feel like anti-Semitism is increasing, 37% of Muslims in Israel have faced a discriminatory situation in the last 12 months. Racism affects everyone, adults and children alike.

Your support makes a difference for children in Migdal Haemek

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
30
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
20
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Siblings going on an adventure together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Israel).

How your support helps in Migdal Haemek

Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.