What's Happening?
Shavvim, an Israeli news outlet focused on disability issues, is planning to establish a permanent nationwide call center to provide centralized information, practical assistance, and emergency support for people with disabilities. Founded in 2018 by
journalist Idan Motola and media specialist Yaron Frost, Shavvim aims to give a voice to the disabled community in Israel. The initiative follows the success of the 'Purple War Room' command center, which was created in response to the October 7 terror attacks. The call center will address fragmented services offered by the government and nonprofits, combining salaried staff with trained volunteers. The project is expected to cost approximately NIS 1 million annually, with funding discussions underway with potential donors, including Keren Shalem.
Why It's Important?
The establishment of a permanent call center by Shavvim is significant as it addresses the systemic challenges faced by the disabled community in Israel. By providing centralized support, the initiative aims to improve access to essential services and emergency assistance, which are often fragmented. This development could lead to better integration and support for the 1.6 million people with disabilities in Israel, representing about 15% of the population. Additionally, the call center could serve as a model for other countries seeking to enhance support for their disabled communities. The initiative also highlights the importance of media outlets like Shavvim in influencing public policy and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
What's Next?
Shavvim is currently in discussions with potential donors to secure funding for the call center. The organization plans to combine salaried staff with trained volunteers to operate the center, ensuring professionalism and knowledge in assisting the disabled community. The call center is expected to serve as a base for future emergencies, providing a reliable source of support for people with disabilities. As the initiative progresses, Shavvim will continue to advocate for the rights of the disabled community and work towards improving their access to essential services.
Beyond the Headlines
Shavvim's approach of employing journalists with disabilities to cover disability issues is a unique model that empowers the community to speak for themselves. This 'nothing about us, without us' principle ensures that the voices of people with disabilities are heard directly, without intermediaries. The initiative also highlights the potential for media outlets to drive social change and influence public policy. By maintaining high professional journalistic standards, Shavvim serves as a springboard for talented writers with disabilities to enter mainstream media, promoting inclusivity and diversity in journalism.
