"In a matzah bakery in the Israeli desert, resilience meets tradition—uniting communities, nourishing souls, and uplifting thousands across Israel."
Amidst the sands of Halutza, a thriving oasis in Israel's southern Negev Desert, the scent of freshly baked matzah fills the air. Here, Yedidya Harush, a visionary entrepreneur and community leader, operates an extraordinary matzah factory—a beacon of hope and livelihood for residents – most of whom are former evacuees who moved to the area following the 2005 Gaza Disengagement.
"Our matzah is very special," Yedidya passionately shares. "The wheat grows in the Gaza envelope, nourished by waters from a sacred spring in Jerusalem itself. Our bakery isn't just about food; it's about rebuilding lives."
Indeed, Yedidya’s bakery is staffed by 55 dedicated workers, residents of Halutza and neighboring communities, each having recently endured the traumatic events of October 7. Many of them – including Yedidya – went into close-quarters combat against Hamas terrorists on that infamous day to protect their families and homes. "Our workers are rebuilding their lives, physically and emotionally, after the horrors we've experienced," he explains with an understated sense of determination.
The factory’s significance extends beyond mere sustenance. Yedidya's matzah has reached tables across Israel this Passover season, symbolizing unity, hope, and resilience. Thanks to the generous support of Jewish National Fund-USA, the matzah factory has risen to meet a momentous request—delivering an astounding four and a half tons of matzah directly to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers stationed near Gaza.
Jewish National Fund-USA's support has catalyzed a remarkable story of small Israeli communities coming together to support each other during the Passover holiday. In fact, a grassroots organization supported by Jewish National Fund-USA is delivering matzah to 2,500 families of reservists, families of fallen soldiers, and those experiencing economic hardship in Israel’s North and South. This initiative has also ensured that 20,000 IDF soldiers receive matzah, strengthening their spirits and connection to the traditions and land they courageously protect.
Last year alone, thanks to the generosity of the organization’s partners (donors), Jewish National Fund-USA facilitated the distribution of 5,000 boxes of matzah from Yedidya's factory, reaching thousands of families in profound need. Yedidya personally tracked and ensured every box reached its intended home.
Beyond matzah, Jewish National Fund-USA hosted over 50 community seders across Israel, provided 8,500 Kosher-for-Passover food boxes, and supported countless immigrants, lone soldiers, widows, and elderly individuals who might otherwise spend Passover alone.
As Israel and Diaspora communities celebrate Passover this year, each bite of Yedidya’s special matzah will remind them not only of the historical journey from bondage to freedom but also the enduring journey of resilience and renewal that the land and people of Israel symbolize. Thanks to Yedidya Harush and Jewish National Fund-USA, hope genuinely springs eternal, bringing "roots and love of Israel from the Israel envelope" to homes and hearts everywhere.
