KKL-JNF board approves millions in emergency aid

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has approved special emergency assistance for local authorities that were affected during Operation “Roaring Lion.”

As part of the decision, special budgets will be allocated to assist the residents of Beit Shemesh and Be’er Sheva in coping with the repercussions of the ongoing conflict, strengthen protective infrastructure, provide respite activities, and assist affected residents.

The two cities were designated as “priority assistance targets” after meeting the professional criteria established following direct strikes in populated areas, damage to buildings, and a significant number of residents forced to evacuate their homes during the hostilities. Each municipality was approved for a total aid budget of up to 2.5 million NIS.

The budget will be divided into three main tracks: an emergency assistance fund of up to 800,000 NIS to address immediate needs on the ground, including the purchase of civilian emergency equipment and initial infrastructure repairs; a dedicated protection budget of up to 1.5 million NIS for the purchase and installation of protective shelters, renovation and maintenance of public bomb shelters, and strengthening protection in public spaces; and a budget of up to 200,000 NIS for respite activities and initiatives aimed at strengthening community resilience for residents.

In addition, the board approved an additional budget of one million NIS to strengthen civilian and educational resilience in the affected areas and among evacuated communities. Half of the amount is designated for educational and community activities in the affected municipalities and at locations housing evacuees, with the goal of maintaining educational continuity and providing a supportive framework for residents and children during the emergency period. The other half is designated to assist volunteer-based civilian emergency organisations operating at impact sites and supporting the management of evacuee communities.

Eyal Ostrinsky, KKL-JNF Chairman, said: “At a time when the resilience of Israel’s home front is being tested, KKL-JNF stands at the forefront of efforts on behalf of the communities affected in the current operation. The decision to assist the residents of Beit Shemesh and Be’er Sheva, and their local leadership, is not only a budgetary step; it is an expression of KKL-JNF’s commitment to be there in moments of truth, for Israeli society in both times of growth and in times of emergency. We are acting quickly and efficiently to ensure that all affected communities receive the appropriate support needed to grow out of this crisis. This is our way of remaining engaged during this emergency, to be present and felt wherever we are needed. This is our commitment, and we will continue to act in this spirit both during the current operation and on the day after.”