/ Right Here, Right Now: A 30% Increase in Hiring People with Disabilities in Be’er Sheva

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Right Here, Right Now: A 30% Increase in Hiring People with Disabilities in Be’er Sheva

By Dorit Abdu, Director, Job Placement Program, Be’er Sheva and Southern, Israel Elwyn

A few months ago, in the midst of very challenging days in the south of the country, I found myself standing in one of the dental clinics in Be’er Sheva. Yulia, a young woman we supported, had just completed her training. She stood in the center of the sterilization room, dressed in white work clothes, a small smile on her face, and carefully sterilizing dental equipment. Near the door stood Yosef, who had gone through the training with her, watching her proudly.
I thought to myself: in the middle of all the turmoil we have faced as a society – how much power there is in this quiet moment.
Two people, working, earning a living with dignity, and being part of a professional team – just like everyone else.

About 30% More People with Disabilities – Right Now

The numbers we have don’t lie. Over the past year alone, in the city of Be’er Sheva, there has been an approximately 30% increase in the number of people with disabilities employed in the competitive job market.
But this isn’t just a numerical increase – it’s a profound social statement: that even in the hardest times, even in the midst of crisis, renewal is happening. And this renewal takes place when a business community understands the value of diversity and there’s a genuine desire to see the person beyond the label.

A Revolution With Partners Along the Way

This revolution isn’t happening in isolation. It was born from close cooperation between Israel Elwyn – which for over 40 years has worked to support people with disabilities in employment, housing, recreational, and community life – and the Social Services Department at the Be’er Sheva Municipality, led by Shoshan Ron Averbuch, with professional support and funding from the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs.
Our goal has always been, and remains, to expand the circle of opportunities for service recipients with disabilities and to enable them to take part in the competitive job market, just like anyone else.

“The Social Badge” – A Mark of Honor for Businesses Leading Change

Following many successes, we recently began awarding “The Social Badge” to businesses that hire people with disabilities. It’s a symbol of recognition – but also a tool to strengthen the business’s identity as one that operates with a social vision.
We’re already seeing the impact: many consumers are choosing businesses with values, and businesses themselves report having strong teams, high loyalty, and a shared sense of mission that unites employees.

Examples from the Field:

MaccabiDent Be’er Sheva – A new role was created specifically for people with disabilities: assisting in the sterilization process of medical equipment. Yulia and Yosef, the new employees, have become an integral part of the team. Sima Ben Zakai Attias, head of the dental assistants team, recently told me: “At first, we had some concerns – today, I can’t imagine how we managed without them.”

Jumbo Stock Be’er Sheva – A new branch that, from the outset, hired four employees with disabilities. Tzur Kirschner, the branch manager, told us: “This is the heart of the team. Our vision is about equal opportunity, and this is part of it.”

Tnuvot HaSadeh – A large factory founded in 1955, leading in the dates, almonds, and peanuts industry. Dudi Yerushalmi, 50 years old and a Be’er Sheva resident, joined us for job placement support, started working in the warehouse, and within a few months was promoted to Operations Manager, responsible for about 30 workers. Dudi told me: “I went through rehabilitation, faced challenges – but I chose to move forward. Today, I’m an example for my children and for many others.”

2,859 Businesses – A Community of Change

As of today, 2,859 businesses across Israel have chosen to join this effort.
From north to south, from factories to restaurants, from large chains to family businesses – each one has chosen to see the person at the center and to be part of a social and employment movement that is creating real change.

And You Can Join Them, Too

If you have a business in Be’er Sheva, the south, or anywhere in Israel – we’re here to support you at every stage.
And if you’re a person with a disability looking for a job – now is the time to get in touch.
Because one open door can change an entire life.