In the pilot phase, housing will be developed in seven towns: Yeruham, Dimona, Arad, Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, Acre, and Nahariya.
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) announced plans to help Israel’s northern and southern communities recover after nearly two years of war.
The new initiative, led by graduates of pre-military academies (mechinot), aims to strengthen the communities through long-term communal frameworks and housing subsidies.
The plan was approved earlier this week by KKL-JNF’s executive board, and the organization now intends to purchase high-quality residential clusters in targeted towns, which will be rented to young adults at a regulated price.
Where will the initiative take place?
In the pilot phase, housing will be developed in seven towns: Yeruham, Dimona, Arad, Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, Acre, and Nahariya.
People stand around apparent remains of a ballistic missile lying in the desert, following an attack by Iran on Israel, near the southern city of Arad, Israel October 2, 2024. (credit: AMIR COHEN/REUTERS)
“KKL-JNF is standing at the forefront of national recovery—not only in rehabilitating infrastructure, but in rebuilding communities and restoring social cohesion,” said KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski. “This program reflects our deep commitment to revitalizing the periphery and strengthening Israel’s social fabric. Mechina graduates are among the most committed and capable young people in the country. They are ready to take on the mission of renewal. This is Zionism in action—not just a slogan, but a way of life.”
Once the program passes an initial pilot phase, KKL-JNF intends to open the initiative in more towns and to more key populations, including teachers, community service professionals, and more.