Wounded Combatants Establish Farm Near Jerusalem for Healing and Community
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Wounded combatants and war veterans have established "Alona Farm" on the outskirts of Jerusalem as a place for healing and community. Spearheaded by Michael, the farm aims to provide a sense of belonging and a connection to the land for those recovering from combat. Founders like Elia, a former Maglan unit commander, sought nature and quiet to cope with post-traumatic stress. The initiative offers a new framework for soldiers to rebuild their lives after experiencing the battlefield.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Wounded combatants and veterans established "Alona Farm" on Jerusalem's outskirts for recovery.
- The farm provides a sense of belonging and connection to the land for veterans.
- Founders sought solace in nature to cope with post-traumatic stress symptoms.
- The initiative aims to help soldiers rebuild their lives after combat experiences.
A group of wounded combatants and war veterans have established a new farm, "Alona Farm," on the outskirts of Jerusalem, seeking a path to recovery and a sense of belonging.
The initiative was spearheaded by Michael, who conceived the idea while undergoing rehabilitation and using crutches. He described it as a "positive revenge," a desire to create something constructive after experiencing combat and loss. The farm brings together soldiers injured in Gaza and Lebanon, including those who lost comrades and others dealing with post-traumatic stress.
Elia, a former team commander in the Maglan unit and one of the farm's founders, shared his experience of returning to civilian life. He found the city and its density overwhelming, leading to PTSD symptoms, and sought solace in nature and quiet. For him and others, the farm represents more than just agriculture or settlement; it's about building a new framework that connects those who shared the battlefield with the land they've chosen for their next chapter.
"The people building and operating the place are the wounded themselves, and this gives a sense of belonging that is different," Elia stated. "We met the people of Israel in their glory, and each with their own struggles and difficulties, and we need to create a home for them," he added.
Journalists Shimon Elkabetz and Naama Shavit visited Alona Farm to meet the founders and observe their work. Michael expressed his hope that the farm would help the veterans move forward in their recovery journeys, addressing the personal demons they carry.