Within this framework, Israel Fire and Rescue is preparing to lead a process of increased absorption of young people from the ultra-Orthodox sector, who will be integrated into a variety of roles in the organization - from administrative, IT and logistics positions, to the flagship project that received the blessing of Commissioner Rabbi Eyal Caspi - recruiting ultra-Orthodox as combat support personnel.
The preparation includes adjustments in which volunteers will be allocated time for prayer. In addition, they will be given the opportunity to continue Torah study hours while on alert, while maintaining their operational readiness.
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Volunteers will be assigned to three shifts per week, and will not be required to work on Fridays or Saturdays. They will also not be assigned to night shifts, which will allow them to have an organized routine.
The service framework will include 36 hours per week, which will be divided into three shifts of 12 hours each.
These adjustments allow for an optimal balance between the operational needs of the fire department and the unique lifestyle of the Haredim, with the goal being to benefit from a significant workforce that will bridge the gaps in the lack of personnel in Israel's fire and rescue services.
In addition to serving as combat, fire, and rescue supporters for Israel, the Haredi also see service members as "ambassadors of public awareness." This is a broader perception of their role, which goes beyond operational activity in the field.
The Haredi firefighter volunteers are expected to serve as an important bridge between the fire department and the Haredi community, while promoting awareness of fire safety issues and emergency behavior. They will be able to explain in appropriate language the importance of fire prevention and safety rules, especially in densely populated areas that characterize some Haredi neighborhoods. These educational roles will be integrated with their operational service and provide significant added value to the fire department in reaching populations that are sometimes more difficult to reach through traditional means.
Those who join the civilian fire and rescue service will receive a significant benefits package designed to support them during their service and assist them in their future endeavors. Within this framework, volunteers will receive a fixed monthly stipend throughout their service, which will allow them to cover basic expenses and focus on their significant role.
In addition, at the end of their service, they will be awarded a generous financial grant of approximately 24,000 shekels, an amount that can help them integrate into later life, whether in studies, vocational training, or at the beginning of their career in the world of employment.
Volunteers will also be entitled to significant discounts on dormitory and property tax payments, an especially important financial relief for young people at the beginning of their independent journey. Another significant benefit is the entitlement to free travel on public transportation, which will make it easier to get from place to place and save significant travel expenses. This basket of benefits is an integral part of the overall concept of Israel Fire and Rescue, which seeks to reward and honor those who choose to volunteer and contribute to the personal safety of all Israeli citizens.
Minister of National Security, MK Itamar Ben-Gvir: "The Haredi public is very close to my heart. Since I took office as Minister of National Security, I have been leading a process of recruiting Haredi people to the security forces - the police, the prison service, and the fire and rescue services.
""There is a dramatic increase in the number of ultra-Orthodox recruits, and I congratulate all those dear young people who contribute and work for Israel's security. While everyone is talking - here at the Ministry of National Security, we are doing!""
