Initiative for Strengthening Community Resilience and Rebuilding Northern Communities
Since the outbreak of Swords of Iron War on October 7, 2023, and amidst the ongoing security crisis, Shahaf Foundation has been providing professional support and guidance to northern municipalities in managing evacuation and emergency operations. The Foundation assists both local authorities and residents in community resilience efforts, focusing on the evacuation period and the reorganization process in preparation for their return home.​
Currently, the foundation is leading a joint initiative with the Community Work Service at the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs to develop community infrastructure aimed at strengthening resilience and supporting community rehabilitation in eight municipalities along the northern conflict zone: Kiryat Shmona, Metula, Shlomi, Merom Galil, Mevo’ot Hermon, Ma’ale Yosef, Upper Galilee, and Mateh Asher.
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The initiative provides guidance and resources to local authorities in designing tailored recovery and resilience plans based on the unique characteristics and needs of each community. Once finalized, these plans can be submitted to the government bodies responsible for northern rehabilitation and will serve as a framework for the allocation of state budgets dedicated to reconstruction.​

• Initiative Objectives

  • Local Level

    • Providing guidance, coordination, and practical tools to strengthen community resilience and recovery in the eight municipalities along the northern conflict zone.

    • Engaging all relevant stakeholders and residents in the recovery process.

  • Regional Level

    • Promoting regional cooperation to synchronize community resilience efforts across municipalities.

    • Developing and sharing practical knowledge based on expertise and experience in post-evacuation recovery and community growth.
       

• Key Components of the Initiative

  • A professional and administrative framework to support local authorities.

  • Dedicated community work specialists (a quarter-time position per municipality) to provide expert guidance.

  • Allocated operational budgets for essential community interventions.