The program members, aged 14-18, took part in activities in the bases since the beginning of the fighting, from Israel's northern regions to its southern region. In addition, there are animal therapy meetings for the Gaza Envelope residents and recreational activities for evacuees and injured residents in the hospitals.
The "Plant Together" program aims at giving a chance for school dropouts or those at high risk of dropping out among the Israeli youth to return to productive and educational paths. As part of the project, the teenagers receive Zionist education, personal treatment, job training, basic life skills and encouragement for meaningful army and civilian service. Many teenagers took part in the program so far, which provided them with the best integration within the Israeli society. The project's field guides pay home visits and locate teenagers at risk in the streets at night (some have been dropouts for several years). All have them volunteered and are busy helping the residents of the Gaza Envelope, the soldiers and the members of the Israeli security forces.
KKL-JNF Chair, Ifat Ovadia-Luski: "Since the beginning of the war, members of the "Plant Together" youth have volunteered to aid the IDF soldiers and the members of the Israeli security forces. In the spirit of giving and patriotism, these wonderful young people join the Merchavim Association in moving between locations throughout Israel and distributing meals to the soldiers."
Eli Castiel, Division Manager at the Merchavim Association: "We are thankful for the privilege of taking part in the aid to the security forces. Our joint activity with KKL-JNF gives the young people pride and motivation to fit within the Israeli society and contribute to the success of the Israeli people."