Israeli Non-Profits Team Up On Financial Help For Stricken Farmers

Israeli non-profit organization Ogen is collaborating with national food bank charity Leket Israel on a program to help rejuvenate the country’s agriculture, much of it based in southern Israel and badly hit in the October 7 terror attack by Hamas in Gaza.  

Through the Swords of Iron Emergency Relief Fund, Ogen is offering two kinds of medium-sized loans for Israeli farmers: the Farmers’ Immediate Relief Track and the Long-Term Agricultural Relief Track.

The first track, in partnership with Leket, aims to tackle small-scale farmers’ most urgent money-related needs, offering loans of up to 300,000 shekels over a five-year period with what it says is an unprecedented 3-percent interest rate.

Eligible applicants are also offered free advisory services, including specially tailored business plans and mentorship from industry experts. 

The second track is designed to assist farmers who require a more substantial financial investment, helping to secure prime-rated loans of up to 1 million shekels over a 10-year period. 

Ogen has already handed out critical loans of more than $21 million, primarily to vulnerable Israelis including reserve soldiers who received an emergency call up after the October 7 attack and the farmers affected by the ensuing war. 

“Ogen stands in solidarity with Israel’s farmers, recognizing their unwavering dedication amidst ongoing adversity,” said Ogen CEO Sagi Balasha. 

“Through these initiatives, we aim to not only alleviate the financial burdens faced by farmers but also to bolster their capacity to sustainably contribute to our nation’s agricultural resilience and food security,” he said. 

“We are proud to partner with Ogen on this important and vital project to support the Israeli agriculture sector during this difficult time,” said Leket CEO Gidi Kroch. 

“Israeli farmers have been the largest food donors since Leket Israel’s inception over 20 years ago. During their time of need, it is our responsibility to assist them and ensure not only the continuation of their livelihood but the continuation of Israeli agriculture overall.”