Jewish Aid Workers Face Funding Challenges Amid Global Crises
At the recent Olam conference in New York City, Jewish aid and development professionals gathered to address the financial challenges facing their sector. The conference highlighted the need for innovation in funding models due to a series of compounding crises. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, increased antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiment following Hamas' attacks on Israel, and the impact of the second Trump administration's anti-immigration policies. Additionally, significant cuts to USAID have further strained resources. Many Jewish organizations are now exploring alternative funding models to reduce reliance on traditional philanthropy, as Jewish funders have shifted their focus to Israel and antisemitism-related causes.