The Jewish Agency for Israel has announced an immediate emergency aid fund totaling NIS 10 million (more than $2.5 million) to assist Gaza border communities in rehabilitation following the devastation incurred during the war with Hamas that began earlier this week following terror attacks launched on Oct. 7.

The aid will be used for humanitarian needs, in accordance with the professional judgment of the local municipal authorities and the specific needs of each area. The distribution of aid will begin on Oct. 15.

This emergency aid granted by the Jewish Agency to Gaza border communities is in addition to the direct aid provided to individuals who suffered injury to their person or property by the Jewish Agency’s Fund for the Victims of Terror.

Jewish Agency chairman Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog said: “I just spoke with the heads of the communities on the Gaza border. I updated them about the new emergency aid fund set up by the Jewish Agency on behalf of the entire Jewish people. Our mission is to start acting now to support the heroic survivors who lost their family members, their homes and property, and provide them with support and assistance in these difficult times. The transfer of the grants will begin this Sunday.”

The Jewish Agency, together with its partners at the Jewish Federations of North America and Keren Hayesod, will provide assistance on behalf of the entire Jewish people to the following local councils and cities: Eshkol Regional Council, Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council, Sdot Negev Regional Council, Hof Ashkelon Regional Council, Merhavim Regional Council, Sderot, Netivot and Ofakim.