UJA-Federation of New York in Israel unveiled a new investment of NIS 40 million aimed at bolstering front-line settlements in northern Israel. This investment marks the latest contribution in a series of support moves provided since the onset of the war, which now totals approximately NIS 315m. out of the NIS 700m. raised by the organization.

Itzik Shmuli, CEO of the UJA-Federation of New York in Israel, emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment during these turbulent times. “We are not stopping here. We will continue to support Israel’s emergency needs in this difficult time,” Shmuli stated.

Further clarifying the Federation’s motives and plans, Shmuli added, “As Israel fights for its home, we do not pause for a moment and continue to deliver tremendous aid to support emergency needs across the country. We are proud to lead the largest philanthropic effort since October 7, when our national home faced attacks. Alongside our unwavering support for the southern settlements and their residents, we have decided to expand our assistance to the northern front-line settlements by adding approximately NIS 40m. to the similar amount we have already invested there.”

UJA supports evacuated northern communities 

The newly announced funds will extend direct support to all 39 communities that have been evacuated from the northern frontline areas. The support includes aid to frontline councils such as Ma’aleh Yosef, Mateh Asher, Upper Galilee, Mevo’ot HaHermon, and Merom HaGalil. In addition to supporting cities like Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, Metulla, Nahariya, Ghajar, and Hurfeish, the funds also benefit four Druze authorities in the Golan Heights region.
Dr. Zvi Sheleg, Itzik Shmuli, and Professor Masoud Beharom. (credit: UJA-Federation of New York)
Dr. Zvi Sheleg, Itzik Shmuli, and Professor Masoud Beharom. (credit: UJA-Federation of New York)
This ongoing support follows an initial investment of NIS 22m. provided in the first month of the conflict, which covered grants to all northern border authorities and cities, including Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona, Metulla, and Ma’alot. The support framework extends to healthcare facilities like Poriya, Ziv, and the Galilee Medical Centers. It includes thousands of dollars transferred to support civil society organizations in refugee cities nationwide, focusing on Tiberias.