safeguarding israel's home front 

This is an air-raid siren. When Israelis hear this sound they have 15 seconds to run to the nearest bomb shelter.

What are bomb shelters for?

For nearly 10 years, the south of Israel has sustained major casualties as a result of continuous rocket attacks from nearby Gaza. Over 10,000 missiles have targeted the 'Gaza envelope' region - Sderot, just minutes from the border, has suffered from almost daily rocket fire.

During Operation Cast Lead (2008-2009) rockets ravaged the area, killing, maiming and destroying property. During the Second Lebanon War in 2006, Israel's north came under unprecedented rocket bombardment.

The current instability among Israel's neighbours highlights the need to be prepared for every situation.

WHY IS IT NECESSARY TO RENOVATE BOMB SHELTERS?

Old buildings lack protected rooms that are mandatory for all new construction. Over the years, public shelters that were constructed in the early days of the State are in a poor state of disrepair and lack basic amenities.

With increased Palestinian rearming and sophisticated weaponry, rural settlements and cities such as Beer Sheva, Ashkelon and Ashdod have been within rocket range of Gazan terrorists. The range of fire from Israel's northern neighbors has also increased.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

• New electrical systems, emergency lighting and ventilation will be installed
• Water and plumbing infrastructures and bathroom facilities will be built
• Foundations and walls will be reinforced

HOW YOU CAN HELP

A donation of $29,000 will renovate one medium-size public bomb shelter.

A donation of $40,000 will renovate one large public bomb shelter.