Jewish Aid Workers Innovate Amid Funding Cuts and Rising Antisemitism
At the Olam conference in New York City, Jewish aid and development workers discussed innovative strategies to address financial challenges in the sector. The conference highlighted the impact of compounding crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Hamas attacks, and antisemitic sentiment, on Jewish organizations. The second Trump administration's anti-immigration policies and USAID cuts have further strained the humanitarian sector. Jewish organizations are exploring alternative funding models to reduce reliance on traditional philanthropy, as many funders have shifted priorities post-Oct. 7, focusing on Israel and antisemitism-related causes.