Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael - Jewish National Fund

KKL-JNF with Israel’s South 💚 Strengthening the Future

KKL-JNF sees the South as a region full of opportunity, growth, and development. Therefore, KKL-JNF’s Board of Directors has approved a NIS 284 million investment plan to support communities and residents across southern Israel.

The investment will support communities and local authorities throughout the Lachish region, Western Negev, Be’er Sheva metropolitan area, and the Arava, including infrastructure and public facilities, land development, education, culture, settlement initiatives, and memorial projects.

As part of this effort, KKL-JNF will establish three Houses of Excellence in Eilat, Dimona, and Kiryat G*t, with an investment of NIS 57 million, creating new opportunities for young people in the South to learn, develop, and succeed.

In addition, NIS 30 million will be dedicated to encouraging young families to build their future in communities including Sderot, Ofakim, Netivot, Arad, Dimona, and Mitzpe Ramon.

This investment is about much more than infrastructure. It is about strengthening people, communities, and the ability to build a thriving future in Israel’s South.

📸 Photo: KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Standing Together with Jewish Communities in Israel and Around the World ✡️

The recent acts of violence and vandalism targeting synagogues in Manhattan and Jerusalem are a painful reminder that the fight against antisemitism remains as urgent as ever in Israel and across the world.

At KKL-JNF, we strongly condemn all forms of hatred, incitement, and violence against Jews and against any community. The attack on worshippers at a synagogue in New York and the vandalism of a synagogue in Jerusalem highlight the need for determined and ongoing action to strengthen the security, resilience, and unity of Jewish communities.

Against the backdrop of rising antisemitic incidents worldwide, KKL-JNF’s Board of Directors, led by Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky, has decided to double the organization’s annual budget dedicated to combating antisemitism and advancing Zionist initiatives on campuses from NIS 3 million to NIS 6 million.

In addition, KKL-JNF continues to strengthen its connection with Jewish communities around the world and promote initiatives that enhance community resilience, security, and emergency preparedness.

In the face of hatred and violence, our responsibility is to stand together, support our communities, and ensure that no Jewish community stands alone.

New Life After the Fire 🌿🔥

About a year ago, a wildfire in Ayalon Park severely damaged the ancient olive trees at the Olive Grove picnic site. At first glance, it seemed there was no hope for them, but when KKL-JNF teams arrived, they discovered that some of the trees still held signs of life within their trunks.

So we decided to give them a second chance.

The burned stumps were carefully removed and transferred to Eshtaol Nursery, where they were placed in specially adapted conditions of heat and humidity to help their roots regenerate. At first, much of the foliage was removed to reduce water loss and support recovery. After about a month, new leaves began to appear and later, new roots started growing as well.

But the most fascinating part is still ahead: instead of returning them to the park as full-sized olive trees, they will undergo a transformation inspired by the art of bonsai. Their ancient trunks and the marks left by the fire will become part of their unique story and character.

Soon, you’ll be able to see these remarkable trees at the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens and Eshtaol Nursery.

📸 Photo: Rotem Attias, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Where Forests and Communities Grow Together 🌳🤝

A forest is more than trees. It is a place where communities connect, create, and grow together.

Through its community forest initiative, KKL-JNF works with local residents and authorities to develop forests that become an extension of the communities around them — welcoming spaces for recreation, education, culture, and connection with nature.

Walking and running trails, bike paths, picnic areas, heritage sites, and scenic viewpoints are developed according to the needs and ideas of local communities, creating green spaces where people can meet, celebrate, and enjoy nature together.

At the heart of these forests are the Community Forest Trustees local volunteers who dedicate their time to caring for the forest, guiding visitors, documenting nature, and creating activities in the fields of education, culture, sports, and the environment.

By bringing people together around the forest, KKL-JNF strengthens the bond between communities and their surroundings, turning forests into places of pride, belonging, and shared responsibility.

Because when communities care for the forest, the forest becomes part of the community. 🌿💚

Autumn Is Already in the Air at Hula Lake Park 🍂🦩

Yes, summer is still at its peak and the temperatures are rising, but the first migratory birds have already arrived at Hula Lake Park, KKL-JNF.

Birds follow the rhythm of daylight: as the days begin to shorten, they finish nesting, strengthen their young, build up energy reserves, and begin preparing for their long migration journey.

The first arrivals include waders and songbirds, with sandpipers, ruffs, and godwits already adding movement and color to the waters. And just last weekend, the first flamingos of the season were spotted at the lake! 🦩

📸 Photo: Inbar Shlomit Rubin, Hula Lake Park, KKL-JNF

Protecting Israel’s Forests, Protecting Communities 🌳🔥

Israel’s forests are a treasured natural resource, but they also face increasing challenges from wildfires, especially during the hot summer months. In the Carmel region, where dense forests and open landscapes meet nearby communities, preparedness and cooperation are essential.

To strengthen local resilience, KKL-JNF approved a NIS 900,000 support program to provide firefighting equipment for six forest-adjacent communities in the Hof HaCarmel Regional Council.

This initiative will help communities respond quickly in the critical first moments of a wildfire, strengthen local preparedness, and support emergency efforts until professional firefighting teams arrive.

For over 120 years, KKL-JNF has worked to protect Israel’s forests, preserve open spaces, and support the communities that live alongside them. Through partnership and preparation, we continue safeguarding Israel’s natural landscapes for generations to come. 🌿

📸 Photo: KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Love in the Forests of Israel 🌿💖

Today is Tu B’Av, the Hebrew holiday of love! Across Israel, the forests and groves become a symbol of connection, growth, and renewal.

KKL-JNF celebrates love by highlighting the natural spaces where hearts and trees flourish together. From shaded pathways to blossoming trees, the forests of Israel are a reminder that love, like nature, grows when nurtured.

This Tu B’Av, we honor love, community, and the green heart of Israel 💞