Jewish National Fund-USA: Supporting Israel’s North in Times of Crisis
From supporting evacuated families to providing bomb shelters and therapy services in Israel’s north, Jewish National Fund-USA’s vision of hope for the region has never been needed more
Since October 8, 2023 — the day after the worst atrocity inflicted upon the Jewish people since the Holocaust — Hezbollah launched a steady stream of missiles and drones at communities in the north, forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents who are scattered from Eilat to Tiberias.
From the first moment, Jewish National Fund-USA has been on the frontlines, providing critical support to displaced Israelis in the north. The city of Kiryat Shmona, along with the entire Galilee region—including Haifa, Nazareth, Yokne’am, and the Valleys—has endured relentless missile strikes over the past week. Despite these challenges, Jewish National Fund-USA remains committed to providing relief and building for tomorrow.
Adding to the crisis, evacuees who escaped Hamas’ terror in Israel’s south and resettled in the north find themselves again under fire. The urgency to support them is real and as the Israel Defense Forces continue to respond, Jewish National Fund-USA is steadfast in its mission to support Israel’s northern communities.
Supporting Evacuated Families
Jewish National Fund-USA has mobilized resources to ensure that displaced families receive both immediate and long-term care. This includes:
- Psychological Therapy: Providing mental health support for individuals and families suffering from the ongoing trauma of war.
- Basic Needs: Distributing essential supplies through regional partners to address the daily requirements of those displaced.
- Activities for Children: Organizing activities to help children and families cope with the emotional toll of displacement.
- Small Business Support: Assisting small businesses impacted by the conflict to ensure economic resilience.
Strengthening Security
Security remains a top priority. In response to the missile attacks, Jewish National Fund-USA has already deployed 150 bomb shelters across the region, with an additional 40 shelters en route. These shelters provide safe spaces for residents to seek protection during rocket attacks, often in areas where no government-provided shelters exist.
Fire and Rescue Services
Jewish National Fund-USA’s long-standing partnership with Israel’s Fire and Rescue services has proved invaluable during these times. The organization has invested in Emergency Response Centers (ERCs) that help coordinate rescue efforts, house medical equipment, and provide volunteer fire and rescue services. These ERCs have been instrumental in the ongoing response to fires caused by missile strikes, including the recent brushfires near Kiryat Shmona.
A Vision for Hope and Tomorrow
Despite the challenges, Jewish National Fund-USA remains focused on building for the future through its plan to “Reimagine” Israel’s north. Ongoing projects include:
- Kiryat Shmona Medical Center: A state-of-the-art facility that is being fortified to withstand the ongoing conflict and continue providing healthcare services.
- Galilee Culinary Institute: A key initiative in the north’s development, which remains central to economic and cultural growth. Jewish National Fund-USA is currently raising funds to offer a 6-month culinary class for soldiers to help them begin a new career. It will also offer children cooking therapy sessions.
- Margalit Food-Tech Center: A hub for innovation in the food technology sector, which continues to drive economic opportunities in the region.
- New Housing and Job Placement: Jewish National Fund-USA is building new housing sites and offering job placements through the Lauder Employment Center, ensuring long-term solutions for residents.
- Volunteering and Rebuilding: Jewish National Fund-USA stands ready to mobilize thousands of volunteers to help rebuild the north, just as they did in the communities of the Israel Envelope (formerly known as the Gaza Envelope).
The resilience of Israel’s north is being tested like never before, but with Jewish National Fund-USA’s ongoing support, these communities are not standing alone. The organization’s response in the face of Hezbollah’s attacks is a testament to its 124-year commitment to protecting and building Israel for generations to come.
Join millions of people around the world who are supporting Israel in its time of need. Donate to Jewish National Fund-USA’s Israel Resilience Campaign at jnf.org/supportisrael or call 800.563.0099