Community Center
Restoring the ‘heart’ of the community

One of the major infrastructure projects, titled ‘Lev Ha’Kibbutz’ (The Heart of the Kibbutz), is central to rebuilding a thriving and lively community life in Nahal Oz, as a focal point to bring the community together once it returns to Otef Gaza. Currently, the project focuses on a major renovation of the Dining Hall, which was badly damaged during the ongoing war, and its surrounding, located in the heart of the kibbutz, addressing vital social and communal needs.

Our plan: The dining hall, built in the 1980s, requires a comprehensive renovation to repair damage, create a small-scale communal kitchen on the second floor, a spacious dining hall that will serve also for major events and gatherings, a senior citizens’ center on the lower floor that will serve as a convening space and activity club for our veterans and elderly population, a convenience store, and an outdoor area with seating and communal space. The renovation will include shielding and protection and an all-around upgrade to the facilities and outdoor space, forming the heart of Nahal Oz – Lev Ha'Kibbutz.

Project Status: Permits and planning completed, construction to begin in September 2025.

• Project budget: 2 million ILS

• Funds raised:
$500,000 from a private US donor (anonymous)
$500,000 allocated from the kibbutz’s government “rebuilding basket” fund
$1 million donation from the Grinspoon Foundation. 

• Funds needed: All raised!