War In Gaza
As we enter 2009, Israel is faced with a war unlike almost any other – a war in which Israel is facing the world alone, facing the world’s public opinion which is railing against her, and facing the harshest of criticisms as she protects her citizens.

The imbalance in media coverage is terrifying and with much of the war being fought in the world’s living rooms and on the television, the hatred against Israel is palpable.

The Israelis who were forced to leave Gaza, at enormous physical and emotional cost, were businessmen, farmers, hoteliers, all of whom had built up viable and burgeoning businesses. They were moved to communities around Israel, many in the Negev, and many of them have since become productive in developing new communities, industries and farmlands.

Hamas took over Gaza and destroyed the existing infrastructure that had been the lifeline of the Israelis. Hamas has turned Gaza into a launching site for Kassams fired daily into southern Israel, and has created a state of war for the citizens of Sderot, Ashdod, Ashkelon, even Hadera. No country in the world would allow its citizens to live under such conditions as these Israelis have for the past 8 years.

The JNF is working tirelessly to help those in the south of Israel live a better life. We act. We build security roads for communities, for children and soldiers, along the Gaza border. We are building the largest indoor recreation centre in Sderot, a secure playground where the children can play without fear of attack, where there is climbing equipment, a soccer field, computer equipment, a food court, and for adults, therapy and medical screening rooms.

We are developing the Negev to attract tourists and provide additional income for the inhabitants; we develop parks and recreation centres to enable people to find respite from stress and fear; we give the soldiers who are sacrificing their lives for us, comfortable places in which to meet with their loved ones; and we prevent desertification with our unique methods of afforestation.

We have made an incalculable difference to the people and the land of Israel; we could not have done it without your amazing generosity; and now, once again in Israel’s great hour of need, we ask for your help. Those who fight for us, need our support more than ever.

Let’s all work together for the safety and the future of our beloved Eretz Yisrael.

Yours sincerely
SHARON
JEWISH NATIONAL FUND OF SOUTH AFRICA

TEL: 011 645-2541
FAX: 011 640-6737
e-mail: sharon@beyachad.co.za