The beginning of the school term was a tough week in WA with devastating fires, a strict lockdown, and online classes. The silver lining came on Sunday 7 February where heavy rains helped extinguish the fires and many Carmel High School students contributed to the success of JNF’s Green Sunday telethon. Despite having to wear masks, be socially distanced, and the dreary weather, many students in Years 8-12 showed up with the same level of enthusiasm as previous years.

JNF’s Green Sunday appeal, coinciding with Tu Bishvat, is an opportunity for our community to plant trees in Israel and to help grow communities in Israel’s south. This year, funds raised by JNF WA will go towards the development of a sustainable community garden for the families of Merchav Am.

The COVID-19 pandemic has heavily impacted this warm and vibrant community and the need to become more self-reliant is a top priority.ÌýThe Community Garden will provide fresh produce as well as serve as a much-needed outdoor meeting place with shaded seating.

With over 500 residents from all over Israel and the world, new infrastructure makes it possible to better accommodate existing families and also helps attract new families to move to Merchav Am.

JNF WA thanks the volunteers from 69É«ÇéƬ, including staff and previous JNF educators’ tour delegates Debra Karro and Tanya Tairy, who gave up their time to make phone calls to the community.

Green Sunday represents our community at its best, working together to help Israel grow and thrive.