Chapter V
A Dignified Livelihood
Every Charedi family deserves the opportunity to earn a dignified livelihood without worrying about social consequences. This must begin in childhood, with foundational learning in basics of core educational subjects delivered alongside and in no way contrary to Torah and yiraas shamayim. The effort must continue and provide real training for those with the responsibility of a family already on their shoulders.
Hatzibur HaCharedi places the right of every Charedi household to earn a dignified and stable livelihood at the center of its agenda. The movement’s vision is to help the Charedi community become financially secure, with the heartfelt prayer: “May Your people, the House of Israel, not need to depend upon one another or upon any other nation.”
The founders and representatives of the movement look to the inspiring example of Charedi communities throughout the Diaspora. In these communities, tens of thousands of observant Jews successfully combine Torah with a career. They include generous supporters of Torah institutions, businessmen who conduct their business with honesty, and skilled professionals who earn their livelihood through their own efforts, all remaining fully committed to Torah and mitzvos.
The central solution begins with education. Every Charedi child is entitled to an education in Torah and yiraas shamayim together with a proper foundation in the practical subjects needed for adult life, foremost among them English and mathematics. A Charedi child who receives these tools while still young will have a far better opportunity to support his future family with dignity.
At the same time, the movement will advance solutions for those who enter the workforce at a later age after many years devoted to Torah learning, often when they already bear the heavy responsibility of supporting a family. Because they lack training and professional experience, many are forced into difficult, low-paying work and struggle greatly with their livelihood. The movement will work on their behalf as well, helping them achieve financial security and fulfill the words of the Chachamim (Kiddushin 82a): “Fortunate is one who sees his parents engaged in a distinguished profession.”
What We Will Change
1. Expand Employment areas and Career-Guidance Centers in Charedi Communities: Strengthening and establishing professional employment centers to provide advanced training, adapted study programs, personal guidance, and assistance with job placement — alongside government programs providing financial support to every Charedi man or woman entering the workforce.
2. Training and Placement in High-Income Professions: Establishing dedicated funding for training and job-placement programs in high-tech and other productive, well-paying sectors. These programs will be completely adapted to the Charedi way of life, including separate frameworks for men and women, appropriate schedules, and individual guidance.
3. Student and Graduate Programs: Offering a broad range of opportunities for seminary graduates -from professional certifications and government-recognized technical qualifications to paramedical programs and adapted academic studies - with government funding for practical training programs that offer employment prospects and ongoing support.
4. Academic and Vocational Study Tracks: Making a variety of study programs available close to home — short courses, certificates, vocational qualifications, and academic degrees. On condition that they will fully preserve the values and standards of the participants.
5. Voucher Reform to Close Educational Gaps: Establishing a fully funded voucher program enabling graduates of the Charedi education system to complete missing education and attend preparatory programs without carrying the financial burden alone. This will open the doors of higher education and employment.
6. Employer Incentives and Diversifying the Labor Market: Encouraging employers to hire Charedi men and women through incentive tracks, cooperation with employer organizations, and close professional support for effective integration across the economy.
7. Representation in Civil Service and Public Sectors: Correcting the severe underrepresentation of Charedim in government and public institutions through incentives to apply for senior positions, proper Charedi representation on selection committees, and a networking platform to support the hiring of additional Charedi employees.
8. Charedi Coworking Spaces: Establishing professional coworking spaces within Charedi centers, with appropriate standards of modesty. These will enable entrepreneurs, independent professionals, and remote workers to work in a suitable environment.