KIBBUTZ BE’ERI, Israel, May 12, 2025—The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has awarded a grant of approximately $2.2 million to The Association for the Betterment of Eshkol Region Residents that will support the agricultural recovery of Kibbutz Be’eri, one of the Eshkol Region’s communities that was among the hardest hit during the October 7 attacks. The grant has enabled the purchase of a new fleet of tractors and other farming equipment to help revitalize the Kibbutz’s agricultural operations.
Be’eri has long been recognized for its strong agricultural industry — a cornerstone of the community’s economic life, social fabric, and regional contribution. The new equipment, already in use, has allowed farmers to resume critical work in the fields and signals support for the restoration of the Kibbutz and the broader region. More than a return to routine, this moment reflects Be’eri’s commitment to growth, innovation, and resilience, and comes as the community advances broader recovery and development efforts through their capital campaign, launching in May 2025.
“We are dedicated to the health, safety, and security of the people of Israel. Communities like Kibbutz Be’eri reflect the pioneering and resilient spirit of Israel, and we are pleased to be able to help devastated communities of the Gaza Envelope, like Kibbutz Be’eri, build back stronger, and revitalize this important agricultural region of Israel,” said Sandor Frankel, a Trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust.
Helmsley works closely with universities, healthcare systems, and nonprofit organizations in Israel that are advancing the programs that will improve the well-being of communities in Israel and around the world.
“Helmsley’s support represents more than new tractors,” said Yarden Tzemach, Head of Agriculture at Kibbutz Be’eri. “Agriculture is the fabric of our lives — it’s how we live, work, and grow together. It also represents the Zionist dream of working the land and holding it. As our community makes long-term plans to rebuild our physical structures and our local industries, this support strengthens the foundation we need to move ahead.”
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About Kibbutz Be’eri
Founded in 1946, Kibbutz Be’eri is a resilient and pioneering community in Israel’s southern region, known for its leadership in agriculture, innovation, and collective life. In the wake of the October 7 attacks, Be’eri is focused on rebuilding homes, reviving local industry, and creating a stronger, sustainable future for returning and new families. https://www.rebuildbeeri.org/
About the Association for the Betterment of Eshkol Region Residents
The Association for the Betterment of Eshkol Region Residents is a nonprofit organization that supports community development, resilience, and recovery across the Eshkol region. It partners with local communities, like Kibbutz Be’eri, to strengthen infrastructure, industry, and quality of life in the western Negev.
About the Helmsley Charitable Trust
The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional efforts in the U.S. and around the world in health and select place-based initiatives. Since beginning active grantmaking in 2008, Helmsley has committed more than $4.5 billion for a wide range of charitable purposes, including $700 million for grants in Israel. For more information on Helmsley and its programs, visit helmsleytrust.org.