Keren Hayesod – UIA’s fire response – The Aftermath
As the fire and smoke subside, and the magnitude of the damages of the fire on Mt. Carmel become apparent, Keren Hayesod–UIA, is now galvanizing support for the long term reconstruction. At two special meetings – one held in the Knesset at a Parliamentary Committee, and one held at the Prime Minister’s Office – Keren Hayesod has been asked to call on the Jewish World to stand with Israel in facing the consequences of
this unprecedented natural disaster.
So far the following needs have been identified;
Support for the Victims (based on specific needs as defined by a special committee)
The Jewish Agency will provide assistance to the 42 families of the fire victims:
• Immediate relief grants …… $1,000 (per family)
• Long term assistance……. $5,000 – $15,000 (per family)
Supporting the Fire Fighters
Helping the Fire Fighters rebuild and strengthen their capabilities with:
• Specially Designed Fire Engine for Forest Fires……$480,000
• Thermal Heat-Resistant Cameras for Rescue & Evacuation Operations…$19,500
• Fire fighters’ protective clothing including helmet, coat, trousers and boots…$2,300 (per kit)
Reconstructing damaged public property and facilities
Many of the public properties and facilities in the settlements that were hit by the fire, such as Biet Oren and Ein Hod have been destroyed or severely damaged.
One example of a site that was hard hit is the Yemin Ord Youth Village – which is home to 500 children from 16 countries (including Ethiopia, Russia and Brazil), most of who are either orphans or have no other home in Israel. 40% of the village was destroyed, including three boarding homes for children and their staff and extensive damage to the dinning hall, library and other public buildings. For these vulnerable children this simply means their home was destroyed. While some of the physical damages will be covered by insurance, it is already clear that hundreds of thousands of dollars will be required to reconstruct public buildings – such as kindergartens and other such facilities. Keren Hayesod management will be traveling tomorrow to the region to asses the needs first hand and will continue to update you.