"I decided to emigrate to Montreal by myself, knowing only 2 people. I enrolled in workshops offered by the Jewish community, participated in events f...

"I decided to emigrate to Montreal by myself, knowing only 2 people. I enrolled in workshops offered by the Jewish community, participated in events for young adults, and took the time to speak with other French newcomers recommended by my advisor to assist with their immigrations.

Since I was known as an enthusiastic immigrant, as well as a communications consultant and someone who wanted to give back to the community, I was offered the position of Integration Consultant for the community's Initiative France-Montréal. I am happy to have the opportunity to welcome newcomers and help them on their journeys, because I know first-hand how emotional the process can be, and how reassuring it is to benefit from personal support and an attentive ear."

Over the last year, Federation CJA has experienced a 62% increase in the number of French Jews looking for information and support to immigrate to Montreal. The Initiative France-Montréal, a multi-partner program, was created to facilitate the immigration, employment and integration process into the Montreal Jewish community.

Six-year-old Valeriya shares a dilapidated apartment in Odessa with her mother and grandmother. Winter boots, coal for heating, as well as food, medic...

Six-year-old Valeriya shares a dilapidated apartment in Odessa with her mother and grandmother. Winter boots, coal for heating, as well as food, medical and school supplies provided by Federation CJA’s international partner organizations are crucial to the family’s survival, especially during Ukraine’s harsh winter months.

“Our family life has not been easy. The situation in Ukraine has now made it even more difficult,” says Marianna. “Fortunately, the Jewish community makes sure I’m not alone — even under these circumstances.”

As the political situation has deteriorated, this assistance has been even more important for the tens of thousands of vulnerable Jews in the region, many of whom have been displaced by the crisis.

When crisis strikes around the world, Federation CJA provides direct help to those who need it most. Through our international partners, more than 65,000 at-risk Jews across Ukraine received emergency assistance last year.

“Every Tuesday, I volunteer at an after-school program with an amazing 11 year old girl. We do her homework and different activities together, socia...

“Every Tuesday, I volunteer at an after-school program with an amazing 11 year old girl. We do her homework and different activities together, socializing with the other children. We then eat dinner together and talk about our day, teaching her important interpersonal and communication skills.

Thanks to the community, we have the opportunity to give these children the educational support and the undivided attention that they may not receive at home. They look forward to coming, and they appreciate the balance and consistency we provide.

Those hours each week make a big difference in her life, and they make a difference in my life as well. Watching her develop the skills she needs to succeed academically and socially makes me very happy.”

Thanks to your support, Federation CJA’s funded programs helped 1,120 youth at risk to break the cycle of poverty through social services, academic support, mentorship and therapeutic counselling last year.

“The SPVM (Service de police de la Ville de Montréal) works collaboratively with Federation CJA’s security team. They inform us when events happe...

“The SPVM (Service de police de la Ville de Montréal) works collaboratively with Federation CJA’s security team. They inform us when events happen in Israel or other countries that may have an impact here at home, so we can react appropriately, educate our police officers about the issues, and increase the presence of officers in certain parts of town. We also train students, teachers, and administrators of Jewish day schools on how to be vigilant and safe with strangers, and how to conduct emergency evacuations.

We are proud of our partnership with Federation CJA, which helps ensure the education and protection of our citizens in an efficient and effective way.”

Federation CJA assumes a lead role in the security of the agencies, synagogues, Jewish day schools and other institutions that make up the Montreal Jewish community.