As Rosh Hashanah approaches, Jews across the globe reflect on the year that was, while looking to the year ahead with hope and optimism.
 
It is a time to celebrate the strength and vitality of our Jewish Homeland, the State of Israel – the only democracy in the Middle East - which continues to inspire and fortify Jews around the world.
 
It is a time for us all who live in the Greater Toronto Area to contemplate our good fortune, and to truly appreciate just how lucky we are to call Jewish Toronto our home; a community in which we, along with our friends and loved ones, are free to live proud and joyous Jewish lives.
 
And make no mistake about it, this freedom is a privilege that we must never take for granted - just ask the Jews of France or Copenhagen who continue to live under the cloud of terror and persecution for no other reason than their Judaism.
 
There is no better time than now – as we start anew – to appreciate all that we have been blessed with in this community, and practice the values of tikkun olam and tzedekah, to transform the lives of Jews in need across the GTA, in Israel and across the globe. 
 
It’s time to consider what kind of new year awaits the more than 24,000 Jews across the GTA who live below the poverty line, and how we can help.
 
Simply put, we have an obligation to help our fellow Jews. This has been the mantra of UJA Federation of Greater Toronto since its inception in 1917, and it remains true today.
 
To all members of the GTA’s Jewish community, I wish you a sweet, happy, healthy and peaceful New Year, filled with new beginnings, new opportunities and much naches!
 
Shana Tova,