Ariel University campus (file)
Ariel University campus (file)Flash 90

Hundreds of people have evacuated southern and Gaza Belt region communities, Israeli news outlets began reporting this week, as rocket fire from Gaza has escalated dramatically. 

To help ease the lives of the displaced, a special program has begun through the city of Ariel and Ariel University in Samaria to host the evacuees and their families in the university dormitories, a release revealed Monday. 

More than just an overnight stay, the municipality has organized activities for the displaced adults and children, as well as tours of central Samaria, it added.

The University Student Union has organized various activities for children such as movie showings, campfires, and day trips; the Ariel Municipality also initiated an event happening this weekend allowing the evacuees free access to the city pool and other attractions free of charge.

In addition, the Ariel police has also been drafted for the project, and have offered tours and other activities to keep the residents occupied. 

The first waves of families began arriving over the weekend; dozens of families are due to arrive over the next coming days.