Degel Menashe Distributes Rice, Summer Camps at Shlom Tzion & Petach Tikva

Bags of Rice arrive at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur.

(June 11, 2025) In keeping with the community support program, Degel Menashe distributed a substantial total of 750 kilos of rice to the residents of Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur last week on the 2nd and 3rd of July, 2025. This initiative specifically targeted the 20 families who reside in this close-knit agricultural community, providing them with a vital staple that is essential for their daily sustenance. While these residents have made impressive strides toward achieving a certain level of self-sufficiency through various agricultural practices, rice remains a crucial component that they have not yet been able to cultivate locally. Readers may recall previous initiatives

A family stands with their quota of rice.

that have been covered in our articles, which highlighted the community's efforts to grow a variety of vegetables and other cash crops. These endeavors have been met with enthusiasm and dedication, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the kibbutz members. However, it is important to note that the crops they have planted will still require some time to mature adequately before they can be harvested and brought to market. This transitional phase is critical, as it underscores the importance of having reliable food sources while waiting for the new crops to yield results. In the meantime, the kibbutz is also set to embark on another exciting venture: a poultry farm project that is scheduled to begin very soon. This initiative aims to diversify the community’s agricultural output and enhance food security by providing a consistent source of protein for the families living there. The poultry farm is expected to complement the existing agricultural efforts and contribute to the overall self-sufficiency of Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur. As these projects develop, they not only promise to strengthen the local economy but also foster a sense of community as families work together to build a sustainable future.

Asaf Renthlei conducting a class at the summer camp in Shlom Tzion Synagogue, Aizawl, Mizoram.

On the heels of the successful summer camp that was held at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur, which served as a vibrant hub for cultural and educational activities, similar camps were subsequently organized at Shlom Tzion Synagogue in Aizawl and Petach Tikva, Lamka. These initiatives aimed to replicate the enriching experiences offered at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur, and the enthusiasm surrounding the camps was palpable. While Petach Tikva was fortunate enough to have its own funding sources to support their camp activities, the situation was different for Shlom Tzion. In this case, the Degel Menashe organization stepped in to provide valuable assistance, ensuring that the camp at Shlom Tzion, which was primarily funded by the local chapter of the B'nei Menashe Council, could proceed without financial hindrance. The overarching goals of these camps remained consistent across all locations: to emphasize the importance of learning and exposure to various aspects of Judaism, Hebrew language, and Israeli culture. This educational focus was designed not only to enhance participants' knowledge but also to prepare them for the imminent aliya, or immigration to Israel, which many

The camp at Petach Tikva, Lamka.

attendees were eagerly anticipating. The camps provided a unique platform for participants to immerse themselves in their heritage, fostering a deeper connection to their identity and community. Asaf Renthlei, a dedicated B'nei Menashe educator who played a pivotal role in the camp's operations, shared with our newsletter that the camp was a tremendous success. He noted that the attendees were overwhelmingly happy with their experiences, expressing a strong desire for more camps of this nature in the future. This enthusiasm for continued learning and connection to their roots was a testament to the camp's impact on the participants' lives. Similarly, at the Petach Tikva location, Menashe Kipgen, another prominent figure in the B'nei Menashe community, spoke passionately about the enthusiasm exhibited by the participants. He highlighted the joy and excitement that filled the air during the camp, noting how the activities fostered a sense of community and belonging among the attendees. Kipgen also echoed the call for more camps in the near future, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and opportunities for the B'nei Menashe community to engage in meaningful educational experiences. The positive feedback from both camps underscored the vital role these gatherings play in nurturing the cultural and spiritual growth of the participants, ensuring that the legacy of their heritage continues to thrive.