JNF celebrates Tu B’Shevat with three unique projects

(Edmonton) – Each year for Tu B’Shevat – the New Year of the Trees – Jewish National Fund offices worldwide choose a special area in Israel to plant trees or engage in a meaningful environmental project. This year, JNF Canada has chosen three different projects that will each make a huge impact in the lives of countless Israelis.

The first project is the rehabilitation of the Kissufim and Be’eri forests. Over the past several months, these forests have been severely damaged by repeated terror-kite and incendiary balloon attacks sent from the Gaza Strip. Supporters of this project will help bring back to life this once lush forest full of eucalyptus trees, green fields and colourful flowers.

The second project helps children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder with animal assisted therapy. Many children in Sderot suffer from PTSD due to the constant missile attacks from Gaza targeting their city. The centre will help the children of Sderot deal with their trauma through interaction with animals such as goats, mice, dogs and rabbits. This therapy is a substantial addition to the toolkit of the resilience centre therapists.

The third project further advances the biotechnology research centre in the Arava. Thanks to this biotechnology research centre, the region is responsible for 60% of the total Israeli export of fresh vegetables. Today, they have shifted their research and development to medication discovery. The centre has developed a new drug in the fight against Alzheimer’s and ALS that is currently undergoing human trials.

For Tu B’Shevat – Jewish Arbor Day – supporters can choose which of the three projects they would like to donate to, or they can let JNF decide to allocate the funds to areas of greatest need.

The Edmonton JNF telethon was held on January 20, 2019 with great assistance from Edmonton BBYO members. “If you donated; thank you, we appreciate it very much,” says Director Jay Cairns, but if you missed the call, there is still time to donate. You can use the attached form or call 780-481-7881.