Leave no one behind - Accessible Vehicles for Northern Israel

Accessible Transportation: A Lifeline for Independence in Times of Emergency Timely evacuation to shelters saves lives. In northern Israel, evacuation within 15 seconds is almost impossible for people with physical disabilities. Many of the young adults we support have worked hard to build independent lives in their communities. Yet in wartime, mobility limitations strips that independence away in an instant. The inability to evacuate quickly during rocket sirens, the challenge of reaching accessible shelter, and the need to depend on others for emergency assistance force many of our participants into deep isolation and regression. Some must give up their jobs, their studies, their routines, and their social connections for the duration of the war. For many, it is effectively a forced displacement. An accessible vehicle enables rapid evacuation from danger zones and access to safe shelter for those who need assistance most. Safe and accessible transportation is a decisive factor in inclusion and community integration. As part of our commitment to fostering independence, Kivunim maintains a fleet of five fully accessible and equipped vehicles. Daily, these vehicles transport participants in our programs to workplaces and national service placements. In addition, the vehicles provide transportation to medical treatments, annual trips, and special events. During the war, they have also been used to bring participants home to their families across the country on weekends, providing vital support to both participants and their families during this complex time. Today, two of Kivunim’s vehicles are old and require immediate replacement. Because of the war, we must purchase and equip two accessible vehicles now. The cost of purchasing one accessible vehicle, including alterations, medical and security emergency equipment, maintenance, and wear and tear, is $200,000. We need two vehicles to serve our students and participants from the northern border to Herzliya. The total cost is $400,000. We invite you to partner with us on our mission, to leave no one behind.