NEW YORK: February 27, 2025 Jewish National Fund-USA continues to rebuild, repair, and rehabilitate Israel's north and south, supporting communities, fostering innovation, and securing a thriving future. Last month was a time of remarkable progress across multiple regions, from the Arava in Israel's south to the Galilee in the country's north.
Empowering Communities & Strengthening Israel’s Security
- Arava Regional Council: Jewish National Fund-USA proudly supported the $1 million expansion of the local medical center, ensuring advanced healthcare access. In addition, 140 security squad members completed specialized training, and the medical team was honored as the Outstanding Team of 2024 for their heroic war evacuation efforts.
- Eilot Regional Council: Jewish National Fund-USA is backing the construction of a new Emergency Response Center, bolstering security infrastructure in the region.
- Mitzpe Ramon: With a population milestone of 6,000 residents, the town continues to flourish, securing 5 million NIS in government funding and planning five new hotel projects.
Innovation & Growth in the Negev and Galilee
- Global Culinary Institute by JNF: A major milestone was reached with the completion of a new 40-person dormitory, enhancing student housing for Israel’s premier culinary education hub.
- AICAT (Arava International Center for Agricultural Training): Hosting 650 international agricultural students, reinforcing Israel’s role as a leader in agricultural innovation.
- Lauder Employment Center: Generating 1,000 job leads for positions in Israel’s south, attracting 400 applicants for just 10 sought-after jobs at Assuta Medical Center.
- AridX – Southern Arava Institute for Desert Innovation: A groundbreaking initiative focused on sustainable desert technology was officially launched.
- Bezalel Academy Partnership: Twenty design students are working on solutions for desert innovation, combining creativity and sustainability.
Sports, Education & Community Initiatives
- Jewish National Fund-USA Sports Arena: Hosted a memorial basketball tournament, bringing communities together in the spirit of resilience and unity.
- Ramat HaNegev’s Youth-Led Café: A social enterprise where local youth run a café, gaining entrepreneurship experience.
- Wadi Attir: Partnered with celebrity Chef Haim Cohen to expand culinary and agricultural programming, including the launch of public weekend events and new youth education programs.
- Horse Riding Therapy Center: In a time of need, therapy sessions for evacuees doubled, with additional services extended to military reservists dealing with PTSD.
Sustainable Development & Environmental Progress
- Eilot Region: Completed a ₪27 million ($7 million) access road and cycling path to Timna Park, enhancing tourism and environmental sustainability. The region also hosted a 320-person cycling conference to promote green transportation.
- Ramat HaNegev Agriculture: Producing 80% of Israel’s tomatoes, a testament to Jewish National Fund-USA’s dedication to agricultural advancement.
A Vision for the Future
Jewish National Fund-USA’s work in January 2025 underscores its unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for our land and people of Israel. From infrastructure and security to employment and innovation, these achievements underscores the organization's "Circle of Impact," whereby every project has a ripple effect that creates jobs, population growth, and economic growth.
As we look ahead, we remain #PoweredByJNF, dedicated to ensuring Israel’s prosperity, security, and strength.
