The World Zionist Organization (WZO) has launched the next phase of its "My Home is Your Home" initiative, offering free emergency housing for families whose homes were destroyed by Iranian missile strikes in several regions of Israel.
In this latest phase, apartments will be offered to families whose homes were destroyed in the missile attacks, with coordination from local authorities.
The success of the initiative is primarily attributed to the chairman of the WZO, Yaakov Hagoel, who appealed to Jewish apartment owners both in Israel and abroad, urging them to offer their apartments to families displaced by the attack.
According to the WZO, the response to the call was extraordinary, allowing for the mobilization of apartments across the country. All the apartments are now ready for immediate occupancy.
The WZO said it is working closely with local authorities, social welfare departments, and other aid agencies to assess the needs of the affected families and ensure a swift and efficient allocation of housing.
“The commitment of our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora is tangible proof that we are one people, whether in Israel or abroad,” Hagoel said. “Hundreds of families lost their homes in the Iranian attack, and our response is rooted in responsibility, mutual guarantee, sensitivity, and unity. The World Zionist Organization will continue to work tirelessly to ensure every family has a home.”
Apartments offered to those who lost homes on Oct 7
The initiative was initially established following the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. Its goal was to provide temporary housing to families who lost their homes.
After the massacre, Hagoel made an appeal to diaspora Jews for assistance in securing housing for displaced families.
“I reached out to Jews in the Diaspora and requested their support in our efforts to offer temporary housing for displaced Israelis until this war concludes,” Hagoel told The Jerusalem Post in October 2023.
In response, over 600 apartments and homes were donated to the organization, mainly in central Israel and Jerusalem. The WZO entered into contracts with apartment owners and took responsibility for the properties.