As part of the national recovery efforts following the Swords of Iron War, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) will launch new community initiatives for young adults in Israel’s northern and southern periphery.
The initiative, led by graduates of pre-military academies (mechinot), aims to strengthen communities directly and indirectly affected by the war through subsidized housing and long-term communal frameworks.
Approved last week by the agency’s executive board, the plan includes the purchase of high-quality residential clusters in targeted towns. These will be rented to young adults at regulated prices, forming supportive, mission-driven community hubs. In the pilot phase, housing will be developed in seven towns: Yeruham, Dimona, Arad, Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, Acre and Nahariya.
The initiative is part of KKL-JNF’s broader vision to reinforce Israel’s social, economic and communal resilience, solidifying its role as a leading national force in rebuilding the north and south.
“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.”
The program will initially launch as a pilot and is expected to expand to additional towns and cities. Future phases will also include other key populations that play a central role in strengthening the periphery, such as teachers and community service professionals.
