KKL-JNF earmarks tens of millions of shekels for projects across Israel
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has approved budgetary and planning measures totalling tens of millions of shekels to strengthen communities and enhance social resilience in the Galilee, the Negev and the “Gaza Envelope.”
A water basin (or “liman”) at the Meitar Forest in the Negev Desert, December 2025. Credit: Shlomi Amsalem and Ofer Ivri, KKL-JNF Photo Archive.
In the north, KKL-JNF approved the purchase of up to 120 subsidized, rent-controlled apartments in Kiryat Shmona at a cost of up to 50 million shekels (about $15.9 million). The initiative aims to house mission-driven communities (Garin Meshimati), educators and community professionals, while attracting more than 100 young families through housing incentives.
In the south, a framework for renting apartments in Ofakim, with assistance from KKL-JNF, was approved for the same target populations.
At the same time, KKL-JNF’s management designated the Ramat HaNegev Regional Council as a primary focus of the organisation’s assistance. The council will receive a dedicated budget of 15 million shekels (some $4.8 million) for land and infrastructure development, construction of public buildings, community preparedness and initiatives to support residents’ well-being, amid ongoing community, agricultural and security challenges in the area.
In addition, a broad national budgetary framework was approved that includes a 30 million shekel ($9.5 million) increase in KKL-JNF’s education budget, bringing the total to 280 million shekels ($89 million). The funding will be directed toward informal education, Zionist activities and strengthening ties with the Diaspora. An additional allocation of more than 20 million shekels ($6.4 million) was approved for land development, primarily to expand and upgrade forest maintenance across Israel.
“KKL-JNF doesn’t just plant trees, it builds communities,” said KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky. “The decisions we have made constitute a clear declaration of intent: 2026 will be the year of revival and growth, and we will be there with the necessary resources to ensure the flourishing of the Galilee and the Negev.”
JNS
