Food
Jewish National Fund-USA’s network of agricultural volunteers has literally been on the ground since the start of the war, almost single-handedly saving Israel’s agricultural sector. Since October 7, Jewish National Fund-USA helped recruit over 30,000 volunteers to work on farms across the country to cover the workers who had suddenly been mobilized to fight in the IDF or the foreign workers who fled back to their home countries. Their action ensured that thousands of tons of produce were picked on time and taken to the markets instead of being left to rot in the fields or on the trees. Not only were hundreds of small businesses saved, but a national food crisis was avoided. For its incredible contribution to the war effort, and for contributing to the spirit of unity, Jewish National Fund-USA’s HaShomer HaChadash agri-volunteering organization was awarded Israel’s President’s Award.
“As a country and as a society, it’s our moral duty to make sure that we protect our food independence,” said Yoel Zilberman, founder and CEO of HaShomer HaChadash. “Together with our partners such as Jewish National Fund-USA, we will not let up on our efforts to support every one of Israel’s farmers, so that they can continue their important work. That is Zionism!”
The Importance of Buying Local
Osi Lankari has been running her home catering business for 15 years in Ofakim, located in the Israel Envelope just five miles from Gaza. She regularly supplies her delicious dishes to Jewish National Fund-USA delegations visiting the area. Part of her agenda as a small-business owner is to help as many small and local businesses as possible, and she makes it a point to do all her shopping for fresh produce in her region.
“Since October 7, when Ofakim lost 52 of its beloved citizens, I try even harder to support local businesses,” she said.
Every Sunday, Osi travels to farms in Moshav Ein Besor in the Israel Envelope and purchases produce directly from them to use to create the delicious delicacies on her menu. In this way, she’s helping the farmers get back on their feet.
“If we all work together, we’ll rebuild local livelihoods,” she said. “For me, that’s the most important thing: to help and support one another.”
Osi’s Cherry Tomato Salad
Salad
1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of different kinds and colors will create a more striking dish)
¾ cup chopped basil leaves
¾ cup chopped celery leaves
One medium red onion, sliced into thin rings
Optional extra
Crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup lemon juice
½ teaspoon dried or fresh oregano
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Mix salad ingredients together, add dressing and enjoy!
B’teavon!
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