In case another war front opens against Hezbollah, volunteers, students in pre-military preparatory programs, the Society of Community Centers, the JNF branch in Britain, the "Making a Neighborhood" association and other organizations have been working since yesterday (Tuesday) to train municipal shelters in northern Israel for extended stays.
The initiative is being led by former Housing Ministry Director General Aviad Friedman, as a lesson learned from the Second Lebanon War, in which it became clear, under missile fire, that the shelters were not prepared for prolonged residents' stays. Friedman told Israel Hayom that dozens of shelters were prepared yesterday in Nof HaGalil, Safed and Nesher, and today the project will be expanded to Nahariya, Hazor, Tiberias, Karmiel and Afula.
A haven in northern Israel,
"Our goal is to reach 1,000 shelters in the next few days. We encounter shelters that are completely unprepared to accept residents. There are shelters that you can't even enter, and there are many that don't have basic equipment. The volunteers clean and tidy them, and bring equipment that will allow for extended stays," Friedman says.
Opening of shelters in Netanya, 2022 | Photo: Shmuel Buchris
He appeals to those who can assist with the project to join. "Right now we still have a few golden hours to continue working, but no one knows for how long. Now it is still possible to evacuate the shelter that the neighbor from the 4th floor has turned into his equipment storeroom, inspect it and repair the electricity and toilets, take care of the flashlight and water, put mattresses and everything else essential. There is nothing more vital at this time."
Friedman details the assistance needed to quickly advance the regulation of shelters:
* Urban project leaders who will manage the operation in each city. For inquiries: WhatsApp 0507237544.
* Volunteers who can come for a few hours or days. Phone for individuals: 0543675865; Group phone: 0559384258
*Donations.
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