People with disabilities

Knesset advances bill to recognize Israeli Sign Language as first language of deaf people

The bill would formally recognize Israeli Sign Language while maintaining the status of other sign languages used in Israel. It would also require the state to preserve, develop, and promote ISL.

Deaf actors using sign language communicate backstage prior to their performance "Luna Park" at the "Nalaga’at Theater" in the Tel Aviv-Jaffo port, March 18, 2012.
PARTICIPANTS IN Adi Negev-Nahalat Eran's Disability Awareness Month inclusive race, December 31, 2025.

Diaspora youth mark Disability Awareness Month in inclusive race at Israeli rehabilitation village

A DEAF PARTICIPANT in Kivunim's program serving in the IDF's Engineering and Construction Directorate.

'I wanted to serve fully': NGO support program enables young deaf adults to serve in the IDF

A MENORAH made from fragments of an Iranian missile that damaged the the Aleh Center for children with disabilities in Bnei Brak. The center reopened on Dec. 14, 2025.

Reopened Aleh care facility makes menorah as symbol of hope from Iranian missile fragments


'Different but equal': Jerusalem nonprofit launches campaign for Disability Day

Instituted by the United Nations in 1992, Disability Day seeks to “build a more just, inclusive, equitable and sustainable world,” according to the UN.

David Marcu (center), President of Israel Elwyn, participates in the “Different but Equal” Campaign with Israel Elwyn’s Community Living program participants and staff.

As Israelis deal with wounds of war, people with disabilities show the way - opinion

Israel’s current war has left deep emotional wounds still in need of healing. Yet we can take pride in knowing that Shalva fulfilled its national responsibility with devotion and dignity.

 Shalva building

Israel ParaSport Center marks 65 years with new Luski Aquatic Center

Reporter's Notebook: The new Luski Aquatic Center marks the third generation of the Luski family's support for the Israel ParaSport Center, ensuring disabled athletes have facilities to thrive.

Israel ParaSport Center marks 65 years with new Luski Aquatic Center

‘Just be you': How Israel can support individuals with disabilities - opinion

Whereas many people view getting out of bed and coming to work as an obligation, for many employees with disabilities, going to work is welcomed and a source of excitement and recognition.

 Israel Elwyn Bus Campaign

Team Shalva heads to NYC Marathon, running in memory of fallen heroes

The Shalva running team, featuring 155 runners including wounded vets and October 7 survivors, completed the NYC Marathon, marking a global statement of spirit and hope.

Team Shalva runs NYC Marathon

Israeli Olympic athletes empower children with physical disabilities at Kibbutz Tzora

The Olympic Committee of Israel organized the program in cooperation with the non-profit organization “Go Baby Go Israel” to promote mobility, independence, and inclusion.

Israeli Olympians meet with children in Kibbutz Tzora.

New report: Heavy burden on health services for people with disabilities

The system is collapsing under the demand since the start of the war, the number of people turning to services has increased by dozens of percent, and caregivers report growing distress.

Since the beginning of the war, there has been a several-hundred-percent increase in calls to mental support hotlines

New community model helps Israelis with disabilities age with dignity

The framework, developed by SHEKEL and approved by the Welfare and Social Security Ministry, integrates housing, employment, and holistic supports within city neighborhoods.

Top row: Prof. Tova Band-Winterstein; Ayelet Fishbein; Danny Katz; Dr. Alon Zamir; Dr. Boaz Tadmor. Second row: Offer Dahari; Clara Katz Feldman; Michal Regev.

Surfing beyond limits where the sea meets the soul

The growing surf community at Posseable is transforming lives through inclusion, trust, and the power of the ocean.

Posseable: "There’s something natural about being among people with shared interests, regardless of ability."

Social media matchmaker accused of defrauding thousands of shekels from disabled clients

The defendant is alleged to have also robbed victims at gunpoint, using an airsoft gun to imitate a real weapon.

Police operate against a criminal organization.

Special Olympics Young Athletes: The inspiring program in Israel for children with disabilities

Beyond the impact on children, the program also positively affects families and the broader environment.

YEDIDYA GROSS, age 4, takes part in a Special Olympics Young Athletes session – building strength, confidence, and joy through inclusive play.