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Residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza receive handmade mezuzahs from Australia

KKL-JNF worked to establish permanent housing for these residents in Ruhama, funding and overseeing the construction of the homes, complete with handmade mezuzahs.

A resident of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel displays a hamsa made specially for them by Australian Jews. Credit: KKL-JNF.
A resident of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel displays a hamsa made specially for them by Australian Jews. Credit: KKL-JNF.

After being evacuated after the Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza have started to return to the Gaza Envelope and are temporarily residing in Kibbutz Ruhama in the Sha’ar HaNegev region.

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) completed the construction of temporary homes for residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in Ruhama by September 2024. Most of them have already moved into these newly built homes. Five of the 120 homes are designated for the hostages from the kibbutz. These hostages, who are expected to return to Israel in the near future as part of the signed agreement, will receive these homes, which were specifically built for them. They will provide a stable foundation for their physical and mental rehabilitation.

Australia Mezuzahs for Kibbutz Kfar Aza
A resident of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel hangs a mezuzah made specially for them by Australian Jews. Credit: Courtesy of KKL-JNF.

During an event in Sydney organized by KKL-JNF Australia, participants crafted handmade mezuzahs, each one dedicated to a new home for the residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. They were flown in from Australia and recently affixed to the residents’ new homes in Ruhama.

Ifat Ovadia-Luski, chairwoman of KKL-JNF, said that “the special mezuzahs created by Australian Jews for the residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza symbolize the strength and unity of the Jewish people. This emotional connection between KKL-JNF Australia’s community and the families of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, who are coping with the aftermath of the Oct. 7 tragedy, is deeply meaningful.”

She noted that “we are proud to have played a part in establishing their temporary homes in Ruhama. This initiative represents a tangible expression of mutual responsibility and the deep bond between the Jewish Diaspora and the State of Israel. The homes built for the community symbolize hope for Israel’s renewal after the war.”

Australia Mezuzahs for Kibbutz Kfar Aza
A resident of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel hangs a mezuzah made specially for them by Australian Jews. Credit: Courtesy of KKL-JNF.

Kfar Aza Dekel Saya stated that “receiving these mezuzahs has been truly heartwarming during such a challenging time. Knowing they were made with care and solidarity in Sydney makes them even more special. It reminds us that we are not alone and that even in the face of hardship, people are standing with us, helping us rebuild our lives and communities.”

Maia Ifrah, director of International Relations and Partnerships for the Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council, said“I had the privilege of visiting Sydney in August as a guest of KKL-JNF. During my visit, I participated in the event where these mezuzahs and hamsas were lovingly crafted. Seeing this project come full circle, with our residents now receiving these heartfelt symbols of hope and resilience, is deeply moving. While these gestures have brought comfort and strength to our community, we hope this is just the beginning of a deeper partnership.

“As we navigate the long road of physical and emotional recovery, ongoing support will be crucial in helping us rebuild our lives and communities,” she said. “Together, we can create a future filled with hope and resilience.”

Australia Mezuzahs for Kibbutz Kfar Aza
Mezuzahs and hamsas made by Australian Jews for residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel who are now living in housing at Kibbutz Ruhama. Credit: Courtesy of KKL-JNF.
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Since its establishment in 1901, KKL-JNF has been developing the land of Israel, strengthening the bond between the Jewish people and its homeland.
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