El Al has decided to reinstate the discounted shipping program for donations to support the Israeli war effort, following public outcry after initially planning to end the program. Charities will be able to ship donation bags for $50 instead of the regular $200, while individual passengers will not be eligible for the discount.
Since Oct. 7, El Al has shipped thousands of bags filled with essential items for Israeli combat soldiers, such as tactical gear and clothing. The decision to end the discount program was based on a perceived decrease in emergency needs in Israel and the high cost of shipping for the airline.
Despite a slowdown in donations, demand among soldiers remains high, emphasizing the importance of the discounted shipping rate. Volunteers organizing the shipments highlight the significant impact of the discount on their ability to provide essential items to soldiers.
One volunteer mentioned the difference the discount makes in being able to afford life-saving equipment like tourniquets for soldiers in need. With a decrease in donation volume and donor fatigue setting in, the discounted shipping rate becomes even more crucial to continue supporting Israeli soldiers.