Heart To Heart

Heart to Heart is an initiative of B’nai Brith Canada in partnership with individuals and families across Canada who are committed to strengthening and supporting our brothers and sisters in Israel. Now more than ever, we must demonstrate our commitment to the Jewish State, and to each and every one of her citizens. Aimed at establishing long lasting relationships with Israelis who have been victims of terror, who have lost loved ones, and who live in isolated communities, Heart to Heart will facilitate correspondence by letter, by phone, by email or otherwise between Jewish families and individuals in Canada and their counterparts in Israel. It is envisioned that this program will expand to include schools and classrooms, and involve Canadian Jews of all ages, abilities, and perspectives. What we have in common is more than a shared faith; it is a shared responsibility for one another, and a shared love for our land. Heart to Heart is the embodiment of that responsibility and love. Become a part of it. Contact us today.

Heart to Heart grew directly out of the experiences of participants in our July 2001 solidarity mission to Israel. Here are the observations of a few of those participants:

“This mission showed me a side of the people of Israel you don’t see in the media anymore — proud, resolute, and strong. Instead of turning inward, those who have lost loved ones to terror are reaching out and comforting those more recently bereaved. The incredible strength and indomitable spirit of the Israelis we visited is awe inspiring.”

Helen Cooper, Toronto

“Courage in the face of adversity is something we all strive for and often achieve. What we saw — that is — Courage under fire, and in the face of tragic losses, is something else entirely. The true pioneer spirit of the original chalutzim has re-emerged, but it is strengthened beyond compare by the fact that the pioneers now know what there is to defend — it is no dream, it is a vibrant land with a vitality that drives the humble to become heroes. At the New Year, it is said we are given a "Lev Chadash", a new heart. For me, that renewal of heart came months earlier when I visited these courageous people. Their vigour and their strength gave me a new heart.”

Rabbi Mordechai Zeitz, Montreal

“We went to some hot spots, yes. We went in an armoured bus, often with a military escort. Most of those we visited are still working to secure such things, and often must travel in harm’s way. And, as events showed when we got back, you can’t put armour on a pizza shop, or a café. I was amazed that despite all this, the families and communities we visited remain determined to lead normal lives.”

David Colodny, Thornhill

Our sisters and brothers in Israel are strong, but they need to know that our support is strong, too. Please complete and return this form if you wish to participate in our Heart to Heart Initiative.
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