FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 14
December 2004

BEST YEAR FOR AMERICAN ALIYAH SINCE 1983:

Nearly 3,000 North American Olim in 2004
Represent 20% Increase Over Last Year

New Study Highlights Economic Benefits of These Newcomers

(JERUSALEM)- A record-breaking year for North American aliyah was reported
on at today's press conference by the Jewish Agency for Israel and Nefesh B'
Nefesh in Jerusalem. Amongst the highlights:

· Nearly 3,000 American and Canadian Jews will come on Aliyah in 2004
by year's end, representing a 20% increase from this area over last year and
the strongest influx since 1983.

· According to a new economic impact study conducted by independent
Israel Business Information Services researchers, the newcomers brought to
Israel by Nefesh B'Nefesh and JAFI since 2002 hold the "greatest potential
economic contribution in the history of Israeli aliyah."

· Each adult newcomer represents approximately $200,000 in instant
value to Israel based on an average of $87,5000 (education); $60,000
(professional experience); and $75,000 (financial assets on arrival).

· As many as 90% join the labor pool, and unemployment for the group
is on par with the national average after a very brief time in the country.

· The average NBN family will generate output worth almost $1 million
during the first 10 years in the country.

· Over 50% of these newcomers bought homes in Israel by the end of
2004, many doing so within 3-9 months of their arrival.