Poverty, difficult social and family circumstances – these were Batal's starting points. A self-determined life, let alone university studies, seemed unattainable. But Batal was lucky: she made early contact with the Jaffa Institute and later even received a scholarship for her desired course of study. The story of a fortunate turning point.
By Hannah Bartholomew with Jaffa Institute
Young people have talents, plans, and desires – but all too often their social background determines their future. This is a widespread problem worldwide, and Israel is no different. Yet, there are ways out.
Education is one of the most effective ways to overcome poverty in the long term and open up new opportunities for young people. This is precisely where the scholarship program of the Jaffa Institute, supported by Christians Standing with Israel (CSI), comes in. The scholarship program helps students overcome the financial obstacles on their path to a successful degree, thus laying the foundation for a self-determined and economically independent life. By supporting disadvantaged students in Israel, the program helps poor Israelis escape the cycle of intergenerational poverty.
Batal's story
One of this year's scholarship recipients is 23-year-old Batal Badganov. She is studying health management and is thus at the beginning of a promising professional future. Her story impressively demonstrates how sustainable support can change lives.
Batal grew up with her siblings under difficult family and financial circumstances. As a child, she attended an afternoon program at the Jaffa Institute, which provided her with stability, support, and community for many years. Looking back, she describes this time as formative for her entire life: “I remember everything related to the program. The wonderful childhood I spent there, how much it strengthened me; the things I learned, the values that were instilled in me—I’m almost certain that I would be in a very different place today if I hadn’t grown up there.”
She especially remembers the people who accompanied her, who helped her with her homework, boosted her self-confidence, and made her feel seen and valued. And the delicious meals, which she never took for granted.
“I am grateful to this place every day. I thank God for this privilege. I am grateful that I grew up alongside incredible children – some of whom are still among my closest friends. I am grateful for the amazing caregivers I had. To me, they were ambassadors of God, doing sacred work with children who truly needed it.”
More than education
Batal's highlights? The holidays and summer camps where they went to the cinema, the zoo, or the amusement park. "The best thing was the swimming pool. Because what could be better than the counselors letting you ride on their backs in the pool and constantly reminding you to put on sunscreen?"
One particularly moving memory comes from the time when, after her parents' divorce, she had to live temporarily in a women's shelter with her mother and siblings. After several months, she finally returned to the afternoon program: "When the door opened, everyone rushed towards me. They cried, were deeply touched, and kept telling me how much they had missed me. I will never forget that."
As a student who largely supports herself, Batal knows exactly how important the scholarship is: "Every contribution really helps and gives me strength. I am incredibly grateful for that."
However, the scholarship program does not only aim to promote education. All scholarship recipients are encouraged to volunteer in their own or other care centers for at-risk children and children with special needs, in programs for the elderly, or in initiatives to empower women.
The selection of scholarship recipients is carefully based on their financial situation, academic achievements, and personal circumstances. Particular consideration is given to graduates of the Jaffa Institute's programs and young people from socially disadvantaged neighborhoods. Since the first scholarships were awarded in 1992, the program has continuously developed. While six students were supported at that time, today approximately 100 young people are given the opportunity each year to achieve their educational goals.
This work would not be possible without donations. The Jaffa Institute's leadership is well aware of this: “We sincerely thank all our supporters. Their donations enable young people like Batal to develop their potential, complete their studies, and build a future that previously often seemed unattainable. Together, we create opportunities that extend far beyond their studies – for the students, their families, and Israeli society as a whole.”
Here you can learn more about our support for the Jaffa Institute.
