Habonim Dror and the Kibbutz Movement launched a new program in collaboration with the Jewish Agency for Israel aimed at guiding lone soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces from the moment they arrive in Israel and after the discharge.
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The first 50 lone soldiers in the new program, Hamsa, are expected to arrive this month from dozens of countries.
About 100 are going to join the program every year and be settled in the various kibbutzim around the country, joining some 1,500 lone soldiers who are already living there.
The project is in memory of and inspired by the late Tzvika Levy, who dedicated his life toward improving the conditions of lone soldiers.
The program offers soldiers a host family, Hebrew studies at a dedicated ulpan, and constant guidance by social workers. Upon their discharge, they will get a scholarship that would cover daily expenses, as well as a salary if they work in the kibbutz they live in.
Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog told Israel Hayom that "putting the needs of lone soldiers first, alongside constant guidance, will prevent many tragedies like the ones we have seen in recent years owing to the loneliness of the lone soldiers."
KKL-JNF World Chairman Danny Atar said: "The project is part of our project 'Israel 2040' that is designed to bolster the Negev and the Galilee. I believe the soldiers who arrive at the kibbutzim will fall in love with them and build their future there and thus realize JNF's vision and the Zionist vision. I am very pleased with this partnership with the Jewish Agency, the Kibbutz Movement and Habonim Dror."
The Secretary General of the Kibbutz Movember Nir Meir said that the "project is a living testimony to Tzvika Levy's life's project."
Habonim Dror Chairman Ofir Liebstein said that the program is "the ultimate way to address the needs of every soldier who decides to come to Israel."
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