start in Five Holocaust Survivors Lack Shelter Amid Conflict
Emergency Challenges for Seniors During Missile Attacks
During Operation “With the Lion,” Israel faced a significant missile assault, which required its citizens to repeatedly seek safe places. This task proved especially challenging for elderly residents, particularly needy Holocaust survivors, many of whom lack adequate shelter. Obstacles such as the absence of fortified rooms (Mamad), inaccessible shelters, physical limitations, fear, and isolation significantly hindered their ability to protect themselves in real time.
The disparities faced by these individuals, who are already grappling with ongoing health and economic vulnerabilities, pose a serious threat to their lives. A recent survey conducted by the charity organization “Latet” reveals some alarming statistics regarding this vulnerable population, pointing to an urgent need for a responsive solution.
Key Findings of the Recent Survey
According to the survey of Holocaust survivors receiving support from the “Aid for Life” program, an alarming 21% reported having no protective measures available during sirens. While only 0.4% indicated that a public shelter is their sole option during emergencies, roughly half (48.6%) are effectively left without genuine means to safeguard themselves. More specifically, 29.6% cannot reach a shelter at all, while 19% find accessing start extremely difficult.
In practstart, many survivors are compelled to remain in their apartments, venture into stairwells, or attempt to hide within their homes, even though such measures offer no real protection. The journey to a shelter often necessitates assistance, which isn’t always available-especially after dark. The situation becomes even more grave for those with physical impairments or those confined to bed, rendering them powerless in such crises.
Demographic Vulnerability Among Survivors
The survey’s results highlight that Holocaust survivors without any protective measures represent a particularly vulnerable demographic: 61% are women, and 64.4% are aged 86 or older. Most of them (84.5%) live alstart, further complicating their ability to seek shelter during emergencies.
Moreover, living conditions exacerbate the problem, as 51% reside on upper floors (second floor and above) in buildings that often lack elevators. Among those reliant solely on public shelters, the statistics are similar-78.9% live alstart, and 63.9% occupy upper-level residences, explaining the immense challenges many face in securing protection during critical times.
Options for Coping with Emergencies
A small fraction of the surveyed survivors have managed to adapt to their circumstances in alternative ways. Some have temporarily moved in with family, while others have relocated to residential facilities with protective measures. A few instances of long-term stays in public shelters were reported; however, such arrangements are only partial solutions that are ill-suited for the elderly due to a lack of basic amenities, including suitable beds, privacy, and nursing care.
Support Programs and the Call for Action
The “Aid for Life” program provided by “Latet” offers essential support to around 1,600 needy Holocaust survivors, including monthly food baskets, emergency funds for medical and nursing supplies, accessibility renovations, and social activities. The survey involved 201 Holocaust survivors participating in the program.
Eran Winterov, CEO of Latet, emphasized the additional layers of danger that vulnerable seniors face during emergency situations, including severe injury risks due to their advanced age and the challenging path to shelters that requires descending numerous stairs. The lack of access to food and basic necessities due to fear of stepping outside magnifies their plight.
He urges for a collaborative approach that combines systemic solutions for the protection of at-risk populations alongside community support to provide complementary assistance.
Zhil Dramon, the president and founder of Latet, added that the disparities unveiled by the survey are not mere statistics-they represent a genuine outcry. Those living in poverty, at an advanced age, and without adequate protection are doubly endangered. As a society, we have a duty to ensure their safety, security, and dignity, especially in times of crisis