top of page
mefalsim.jpeg

Kibbutz Mefalsim

Founded in 1949 by Latin American pioneers, Mefalsim is a vibrant kibbutz known as the "Road Pavers" of the Negev, where a rich heritage of Argentine folk music and a welcoming spirit for newcomers have flourished across 11,000 dunams of historic farmland. During the harrowing hours of October 7, the kibbutz's local security team waged a desperate, hours-long battle to hold the gates against an overwhelming assault; today, this resilient community seeks your partnership to honor the lives of the soldiers and civilians lost that day and to help rebuild the sanctuary their founders spent decades paving for the Jewish people.

Paving the Way in the Negev

A Latin American Heart in the Holy Land

Mefalsim stands as a unique cultural outpost in southern Israel, established by the Habonim Dror movement with immigrants primarily from Argentina and Uruguay. The kibbutz became a legendary center for Latin American culture, famously producing Conjunto Mefalsim, a band that brought the sounds of Argentine folk music to the Israeli mainstream for decades. Beyond its musical roots, Mefalsim has been a place of refuge and growth, absorbing families during the Gaza disengagement and maintaining a high-tech agricultural sector despite its location on the front lines.

The morning of October 7, 2023, brought the most severe trial in the kibbutz's history. Approximately 30 militants attempted to breach the main gate, but were repelled by the extraordinary bravery of the local civilian security squad (Katzat). While the gate held, the surrounding area saw intense fighting that claimed the lives of 13 soldiers and three civilians, including several who were caught outside the perimeter. By twinning with or donating to Mefalsim, you are supporting a community of 900 people as they recover from the trauma of the siege, helping to restore their damaged kindergarten and ensuring the "Road Pavers" can continue their journey of resilience and song.

Twin with Nearby Towns

Twin with a Community Near Kibbutz Mefalsim: Other frontline towns near Mefalsim require essential security training now. Fund a twinning commitment to equip their local defense teams against immediate threat or disaster.

Twin with other Towns

PHOTO-2025-12-03-12-00-00.jpg

Make a Contribution from Wherever You are in the World...

You or your organization may donate to Magen 48 through your Donor Advised Fund (DAF), credit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay through CAUSEMATCH.

All donations made through the platform shall be multiplied x4 by matching donors.

​​

U.S. Dollar Donations shall be tax deductible through FNA.

bottom of page