Families of Diabetes Sufferers to Get Special Payment

The Knesset has authorized a special payment to families who have have members suffering from Type 1 (Juvenile) diabetes. The monthly payment of NIS 1,095 ($285) per month will go to families who have a family member under 18 years of age living at home. Previously, special grants had been awarded to families with children suffering from the disease who are 12 and under. The law was authored and promoted by MK Yoav Tzur (Shas).

There are approximately 2,500 youths 18 and under suffering from the disease, and each year about 100 new cases are diagnosed. Unlike Type 2 Diabetes, Type 1 is often hereditary, and usually cannot be alleviated or cured through diet or lifestyle changes, as Type 2 Diabetes can.

The Israel Juvenile Diabetes Association praised the decision, saying that the payments would help families that are required to organize special diets and equipment for those suffering from the disease. “We are very happy to see that the Knesset is aware of the problems faced by Diabetes patients and their families, and that the issues affect families whose children are over 12 years of age as well.”