Dear Friends,
Viewing the world right now, it often seems as though we are drowning in terrible news and bleak outlooks. With Hanukkah now upon us, it is great to be reminded that we are still surrounded by the people who love and care for us the most — family, friends and community.
Our donors are a constant reminder of the warmth and comfort we receive from our community. They continue to open their hearts to the entire community, even while faced with their own times of uncertainty. Their generosity has sustained us and has, in turn, helped us support our community in new and unique ways over the past year.
In our third phase of COVID-19 Relief Funding, we provided an additional $203,500 in grants to Manitoba-based Jewish organizations. This latest granting cycle brings the total amount distributed through Jewish Foundation of Manitoba grants to almost $740,000. When our community has needed us most, we've been able to be there for them. This is only possible because of the generosity of our donors. Because of you, the burden of this pandemic on many of our local organizations is a little lighter.
In late October, many of you saw our Endowment Book of Life Week take place across social media and the Winnipeg Free Press. Once again, we thank our Signers for their commitment to our community's future. These six generous individuals will make a difference for years to come. The event was a resounding success. We are thrilled with the outpouring of support and recognition our Signers received from their friends, family and fellow community members from across the continent.
For Hanukkah this year, Jewish Child & Family Service is hosting a community virtual candle lighting. We are honoured that JFM has been asked to lead the final night, with Richard lighting the candles. Please join us in the celebration on Thursday, December 17 at 7 p.m. A link to the virtual candle lighting can be found on the Jewish Child & Family Service website.
Finally, as the year ends, it's an excellent time to fulfill your philanthropic plans for this year. Donors have until December 31 to make their gifts and receive a tax receipt for 2020. These last-minute donations, as with all gifts, will help your community for a lifetime.
From the entire Board and staff of the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, we send our very best to you and your family this Hanukkah and holiday season. Please keep safe, healthy and happy.
Chag Sameach
Richard L. Yaffe, Q.C.
Chair, Board of Directors
John W. Diamond, B.A., LL.B.
Chief Executive Officer