In Lod—a city where 36% of residents live below the poverty line and many Ethiopian-Israeli families struggle with language and cultural barriers—the battle against hunger is a daily reality. Amid these challenges, JNF Canada has launched three groundbreaking projects at its Food Sustainability Centre to not only fight food insecurity but also break the cycle of poverty and foster community resilience.
At the heart of these initiatives is a community vegetable garden designed to teach agricultural skills. Participants learn how to cultivate fresh produce, providing them with practical, marketable skills and the opportunity to grow their own nutritious food. “This garden is more than just a source of fresh vegetables—it’s a classroom and a symbol of self-reliance,” explained a local coordinator involved in the project.
In addition to the garden, a food salvaging center has been established to collect surplus food from local vendors and restaurants. This center repurposes what might otherwise be wasted, preparing warm meals for those in need and ensuring that nutritious food reaches vulnerable populations. The salvaging center not only alleviates hunger but also serves as an example of sustainable practices and resourcefulness.
Complementing these efforts is a community market that offers fresh produce at affordable prices. By creating a dedicated space where residents can access healthy food, the market helps stimulate local economic activity and provides job opportunities in the area. Community members have expressed pride in this initiative, noting that it offers hope and a practical solution to long-standing economic challenges.
These projects, funded by generous supporters, embody the transformative impact of JNF Canada’s work. Beyond meeting immediate nutritional needs, the initiatives are building skills, creating employment, and instilling a sense of local pride—vital ingredients in the fight against poverty.
The work in Lod is also marked by a poignant tribute. The JNF Canada family extended its sincerest condolences to the Kipnes family following the passing of Dr. Dianne Kipnes z”l. A staunch supporter of Israel and the Jewish people, Dr. Kipnes was instrumental in transformative projects like the Food Sustainability Centre and Women’s Empowerment Education Centers in Lod and Yerucham. Described as an Eishet Chayil—a Woman of Valour—with a heart of gold, her legacy continues to inspire those working to improve lives on the ground.
As these initiatives take root, they offer a model for how targeted support and sustainable practices can uplift communities facing systemic challenges. By empowering residents with practical skills and fostering local pride, JNF Canada is not only combating hunger but also paving the way for a more resilient future in Lod and beyond.