Tens of thousands of dunams of agricultural land were abandoned in Israel. One of the reasons for this is the difficult struggle that Israeli farmers have in the fight against agricultural crime which has become a serious struggle in the State.
To help the farmers, over 1,600 volunteers come, at least once a month, to guard the farm. Hashomer creates a presence in the field. The presence prevents theft, arson, damage to agricultural equipment, and more, and allows farmers security and quiet nights.
The farmer holds the land of the State for all the citizens of the state, when the farmer despairs and abandons the land, the area becomes desolate and a fertile ground for criminal elements to take over. The volunteers of HaShomer HaChadash are a wonderful group of lovers of the land who go out into the field, at night and strengthen the spirits of the farmers, and above all prove to them that there is someone standing by their side. Along with the value of mutual commitment and civic courage, volunteering provides an experience of connection to the country, meeting people from all over the country, lively conversations around the fire, into the night in front of amazing landscapes.
It is important to note that the protection is carried out without weapons, and is conducted in pairs and groups. Once an hour the volunteers conduct a short tour to make sure the area is free of intruders.
Our volunteers come from all population groups – men, women, kibbutzniks, urban, religious, and secular. Volunteering provides a valuable and meaningful experience and is intended for people who value the connection to the land, and the love of the land, along with the joy of action, caring, and mutual commitment.
Guarding takes about 8 hours, takes place in the hours of darkness and at night with a partner or additional partners to guard. At the beginning of each shift, the volunteers will receive a briefing from the farmer or his representative, or alternatively a staff member from HaShomer. Patrols must be carried out and vigilance must be maintained according to the received briefing.
Arriving for guard training before starting volunteering. The guard trainings are held throughout the country once a month, the training lasts about two and a half hours, after which you join as full-fledged volunteers. sign up once per month/months at the observatory nearest to your home Carrying out the task in the field, full vigilance in guarding, seriousness and responsibility Getting to the guard area is independent and requires a car.
For every person between the ages of 18-120, for whom the State's lands are dear to them. For groups of friends from high school, work or the army and the reserves. Suitable for any citizen who wants to connect to a worthwhile activity: Men, women, kibbutzniks, urban, religious, secular – our volunteers come from all population groups. Volunteering with us is a valuable and meaningful experience and is intended for people for whom a connection to the land, to the love of the land, together with the joy of action, caring and mutual guarantee are important to them.
