Merkos 302 · Mikvah Initiative

A Mikvah in
Every City

The Rebbe repeatedly emphasized that a mikvah is among the most essential foundations of a Jewish home and community. The Merkos Mikvah Project was established to help Shluchim bring that vision to life.

Explore Programs Learn More
"

The Rebbe repeatedly emphasized the importance of establishing mikvaos and encouraged communities to make them a priority — a mikvah is one of the most important yesodos of a Jewish home and community.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson ז"ל

Our Mission

Supporting Communities at Every Stage

Through grant funding, practical resources, and dedicated mikvah development initiatives, the Merkos Mikvah Project walks alongside communities from first conversation to opening day — and beyond.

Grant Programs

Two Paths Forward

Whether your community is ready to break ground today or planning for the future, there is a path for you.

Foundational Program

Foundational Mikvah Project

A practical, cost-effective approach designed by Merkos 302 to help communities establish a functional, halachically sound mikvah as quickly as possible — without waiting for a large-scale project to be in place.

  • Halachically sound bor construction
  • Core mikvah infrastructure
  • Rainwater collection planning
  • Heating and filtration solutions
  • Construction coordination & planning guidance
  • Grant funding consideration
Learn More & Apply
Full-Scale Program

Full-Scale Mikvah Project

For communities pursuing a larger mikvah development with custom design, expanded facilities, and a broader communal vision. Apply for future grant consideration as funding becomes available.

  • Custom architectural design
  • Expanded preparation rooms
  • Full facility development
  • Long-term community planning
  • Future grant consideration
Apply for Consideration

* All communities are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to communities prepared to move forward with the Foundational Mikvah Project and establish a functional mikvah as quickly as possible.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Every mikvah built through this program is constructed according to halachic requirements under appropriate rabbinic oversight.
No. The Foundational program is designed to help establish a functional mikvah first. Many Shluchim later choose to expand, beautify, or develop the surrounding structure as additional funding becomes available. The foundation is built to grow.
Not necessarily. In many cases, a functional mikvah can be established before a larger building project is completed.
The program focuses on essential mikvah infrastructure first, using an established model developed specifically to reduce costs, shorten timelines, and eliminate many of the complexities associated with larger projects — without compromising on halachic integrity or quality.
Not necessarily. The program strives to create a mikvah that is both beautiful and functional while remaining cost-effective. The focus is on investing resources where they matter most — allowing communities to establish a quality mikvah without the overhead of a large-scale development project.
The Shliach remains actively involved throughout the process, coordinating local logistics, contractors, fundraising, and community needs. Experienced mikvah professionals provide guidance on key planning and construction decisions.
Depending on the project, this may include:
  • Bor construction
  • Core mikvah infrastructure
  • Rainwater collection planning
  • Heating and filtration solutions
  • Construction coordination
  • Planning and development guidance
Costs vary based on location, site conditions, local labor, utilities, permits, and other factors. Each project is evaluated individually to determine the most realistic and efficient path forward.
Grant assistance varies by project and is determined individually based on need, readiness, and available funding. Communities are encouraged to apply and a representative will be in touch to discuss your specific situation.
Yes. The Foundational model is designed to serve as a strong foundation that can be enhanced, beautified, or expanded over time as the community grows and additional resources become available.
This program is intended for Shluchim seeking a practical and realistic path to establishing a mikvah — particularly in locations where mikvah access is currently limited or unavailable, and where a large-scale project is not yet feasible.