Comparing Transnational and Communal Diaspora Philanthropies Among Temporary Migrant Workers: The Case of the Filipino Community in Israel

Diaspora philanthropy, sending donations to the homeland, has evolved with worldwide migration. While scholars have explored diaspora philanthropy in diverse communities, no research focuses on migrant worker communities ineligible for permanent settlement in their host country. This study posits that donations within such communities should be considered to be a component of diaspora philanthropy. Based on a qualitative and quantitative study on the Filipino community in Israel, this research compares transnational and communal philanthropies among migrant workers. Analysis of the targets, mechanisms and amounts of donations, revealed meaningful differences. The transnational philanthropy, mostly proactive and long term, focuses on collective needs in the home country, thus fostering a better and steady future, while strengthening migrant worker links with their homeland. The communal philanthropy, mostly reactive and short term, focuses on migrant workers' immediate individual needs, contributes to their survival and enhances solidarity in the host country.