Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund and Jewish National Fund-USA Lead Rebuilding Efforts in Israel
A Historic Agreement Between KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA has Established a Joint Venture for Reconstruction and Renewal in Israel’s Southern and Northen Regions.
NEW YORK—Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund and Jewish National Fund-USA are proud to announce a historic agreement to embark on a joint venture dedicated to rebuilding the communities in Israel devastated by the horrific attacks of October 7 and the ensuing attacks.
This venture is symbolic of the two largest Zionist organizations’ storied history of always turning words into actions and actions into outcomes.
Each organization is expected to contribute up to $25 million (for a combined total of $50 million) on a project-by-project basis to support initiatives that rehabilitate, repair, and rebuild communities in Southern and Northern Israel that were devastated as a result of the October 7 terrorist attacks.
The two organizations share a special bond with the Israel Envelope. The first kibbutz (Kibbutz Gvulot) established in the area in 1943, was built on land purchased by KKL-JNF, made possible by Jews worldwide making contributions in little Blue Boxes, driven by an ancient dream of returning home.
Each organization also has done extensive work in the communities bordering Lebanon, which are bearing the brunt of the almost daily terrorist missile and drone attacks.
The creation of this joint venture comes at a critical time for frontier communities. KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA have made over $100 million in philanthropic investments in the region so these communities can welcome displaced residents back home and create a new reality where their towns and villages are more beautiful and amenity-rich than they were before October 7. The goal is to make the Israel Envelope and Northern Israel the envy of all of Israel.
KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA have been at the forefront of this crisis from day one, providing vital support and resources to assist evacuees, victims, and civil defense needs, while also offering food, educational supplies, employment services, and much more. Their efforts have been crucial in helping individuals cope with the psychological and physical toll of this prolonged war.
As KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA continue their efforts during this challenging period, their unified message is clear: Together, we will prevail.
KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski stated, "The October 7 attack was unprecedented since the Holocaust, impacting the entire Jewish people. Our challenge now is to unite efforts for the revival of Israel. KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA are joining forces through the creation of this joint venture to support the reconstruction of southern and northern communities. This historic agreement establishes an unprecedented and powerful partnership Together, we will address the war’s challenges, reconnect communities, and rebuild the Western Negev and northern towns. KKL-JNF has laid the groundwork for the State of Israel and continues to build the land. This collaboration with Jewish National Fund-USA will greatly amplify our impact."
Jewish National Fund-USA President Dr. Sol Lizerbram added, "I want to acknowledge this remarkable achievement by KKL-JNF Chairwoman, Ifat Ovadia-Luski, who, like us, saw the need to unite our Zionist philanthropic world, to work together, and to make things happen. Now, more than ever, we need Zionist organizations everywhere to coordinate efforts to address these unprecedented challenges. This moment in history demands it of us. We are committed to leveraging every resource available to help our land and people of Israel, just as we have for 123 years."
Jewish National Fund-USA Incoming Ambassador to KKL-JNF, Nina Paul emphasized, "We have grieved together, and now we must rebuild together. The challenges are immense, but so is our determination. This moment demands that Zionists everywhere unite and step forth with courage as we overcome the historic challenges before us. Together, we will transform Israel’s north and south into the most desirable places to live in all of Israel, driven by our historic vision for the land and people of Israel. I look forward to representing Jewish National Fund-USA as we work with the KKL-JNF team to oversee the approval and implementation of these critically important projects."
KKL-JNF Acting CEO Yuval Yeyni concluded, "As we face the aftermath of the most severe attack in Israel’s history and continue fighting in the south and north, our joint teams will work together to rebuild and improve even beyond pre-war conditions. We have a historic opportunity to unite and create a better future for residents in the south and north."
Media Contact:
Stefan Oberman
212.879.9305 x222
Photo: Ifat Ovadia-Luski, Chairwoman of KKL-JNF and Dr. Sol Lizerbram, President of JNF-USA signing the agreement. Source: Gabby Lipton.
| Themes |
| • Globalization, negative impacts • International • National • Population transfers • Project management • Public policies • Public programs and budgets • Regional |
