When war struck Israel in June, it wasn’t just the Iron Dome that shielded civilians—it was also a network of volunteers, emergency responders, and critical infrastructure powered by Jewish National Fund-USA. In the face of missiles, sirens, and fear, we stood tall—not just as philanthropists, but as builders of the people of Israel's future. Our initiatives didn't pause. They grew stronger, ensuring Israel’s North and South remain an indespensible part of the country's future.
A Fortress of Healing
In southern Israel, a world leading Jewish National Fund-USA-supported rehabilitation village stood as a beacon of healing amid chaos. With 850 dedicated staff—including 118 doctors and 41 therapists—the village continued to deliver over 5,200 monthly therapy sessions and operated at full capacity with 92 rehab beds. When Soroka Medical Center was hit by an Iranian ballistic missile, the village absorbed patients, proving once again its vital role in Israel’s emergency healthcare infrastructure. For wounded IDF soldiers, families grappling with PTSD, and children in need of special education, the village offered not just care—but hope.
From Arava to Eilot: Resilience at the Edge
In the Central Arava, where hospitals are hours away, Jewish National Fund-USA medical centers became emergency departments. Emergency grants secured CPR kits and critical supplies to save lives. Further south, in the Eilot Region, 75 UAVs were intercepted, red alert sirens blared 151 times, and Jewish National Fund-USA’s newly completed shelter prevented mass evacuations. With our $50,000 emergency grant for a bomb shelter at Timna Park and plans for a new Emergency Response Center, we are redefining preparedness in Israel’s frontier.
Israeli firefighters inspect the impact site from an Iranian Ballistic missileCommunities Mobilized: Arad, Mitzpe Ramon & Beyond
In Arad, we funded advanced civilian communication tools and upgraded shelters, enabling the city to house soldiers and care for evacuees. In Mitzpe Ramon, our Innovation Fund celebrated its first investment exit—and welcomed two new families, including startup founders, thanks to our dynamic ecosystem.
Galilee: Growth Amidst the Gunfire
While rockets threatened the Galilee, our vision of attracting 800,000 new residents did not waver. We advanced housing development, scouted locations for Emergency Response Centers, and supported organizations which safely evacuated 450 children, providing them with online education while also helping farmers battle labor shortages.
Muss High School: From Classroom to Crisis Center
When Be’er Sheva was struck, our Alexander Muss High School in Israel transformed into a humanitarian hub, serving 1,400 evacuees and coordinating medical and psychological support. Over 200 displaced people also used the campus as temporary accommodation.
Volunteers help displaced people at Muss’ Be’er Sheva campusFrom Israel to Africa: Tikkun Olam Knows No Borders
Even in crisis, our global impact continued. In Kenya, Jewish National Fund-USA's Kasser Joint Institute for Food, Water, and Energy Security pushed forward with agrivoltaic research and aquaponics training, empowering local farmers and promoting sustainability. These efforts not only elevate communities abroad—they reflect the same values we bring to every project in Israel.
Throughout the month of June, Jewish National Fund-USA continued to leverage its decades-long relationship with Israeli communities in the North and South to be there during their darkest and brightest hours. From bomb shelters and rehab centers to economic innovation and global sustainability, we wove a safety net across Israel. Every grant, every meal, every siren-evacuation led back to one truth: our commitment to the land and people of Israel is more than just a project or program. It is steadfast, strategic, and stronger than ever.
Because when Israel calls, Jewish National Fund-USA answers—with action. Just as we did yesterday, continue to do today, and will do for generations to come.
To support the land and people of Israel, visit jnf.org/donate or call 800-JNF-0099.
