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Rights for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans — The Complete Guide in Sderot
Ethiopian-Israeli soldiers are entitled to an enhanced discharge grant (150% of the base grant), dedicated vocational-training programs, study scholarships, and priority on housing waiting lists.
About Sderot
Sderot, located adjacent to the Gaza border, hosts a long-established Israeli-Ethiopian community that has dealt with security challenges alongside economic hardship. The community has demonstrated remarkable resilience, and development projects in the city offer new housing opportunities.
What Is Unique to Ethiopian-Israeli Soldiers?
Government resolutions establish special benefit tracks for soldiers of Ethiopian origin. Awareness is low and many do not claim what they are entitled to.
Enhanced discharge grant: 150% of the standard base grant — 50% more. Submit Form B.L.87 before discharge, or within one year of release.
Dedicated vocational programs: Tech training (Nativ LaAtid), logistics, agriculture, engineering — run jointly by IEWA, the Ministry of Aliyah, and partner organisations.
Study scholarships: Jerusalem Foundation grants (up to ₪20,000/year), Mapal grants for combat veterans, and free university-prep year programs.
Housing priority: Ethiopian-Israeli veterans receive priority points on public-housing and state housing-program waiting lists. Apply via your city's Ethiopian-community liaison (Mamshil) with your discharge certificate.
Contact IEWA (iewa.org.il) or TEBEKA (1-800-20-20-16) for guidance.
About Sderot
Related rights
Vocational Training Vouchers for New Immigrants
New immigrants are entitled to vocational training vouchers worth up to ₪12,000 for accredited courses — to acquire a trade and integrate into the Israeli labour market.
Advanced Ulpan (Bet / Gimmel) — Hebrew Beyond Basics
Continued Hebrew studies beyond basic ulpan. Ulpan Bet (everyday), Gimmel (academic). Free / subsidized via Ministry of Aliyah. Every immigrant is eligible during the first 10 years.
Military Discharge Benefits for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans
Ethiopian-Israeli discharged soldiers are entitled to a discharge grant of up to 120,000 ILS, an education scholarship, mortgage points, and preference in civil service.
Daycare Subsidy for Working Families
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