As an evidence-driven organization, UJA uses data to better understand our community and effectively respond to the greatest needs and emerging trends. We continuously share insights with our partners and the community, so that together we can:
- Plan wisely and meet needs as they arise
- Build a resilient and vibrant Jewish community for generations to come
Jewish Toronto is Changing
43%
increase in the 65+ population in the last census reading (2011–2021). A quarter of our community is now over 65 years old
2X
more Jewish residents now live well beyond the Bathurst corridor. The largest population increases are downtown, as well as north and west of the GTA
5,000+
newcomer Israelis have moved to the GTA since October 7, 2023
Using in-depth research and consultation, UJA is responding proactively to our community’s changing dynamics. We’re strengthening infrastructure and investing in programs to ensure every part of our community is supported. This includes:
- Specialized programming for seniors to ensure the growing population of older adults remains supported and independent
- Expanding the geography of programs like UJA ShinShinim and PJ Library to reach emerging Jewish communities
- Support for newcomer Israelis, from help with transitioning into Canadian society to Hebrew-language program offerings for families
“The Kesher program has contributed in a meaningful way to our family's integration journey in Canada.”
— Kesher program participant
Launched by UJA in spring 2025, Kesher is a programming hub offering weekly classes in Hebrew for Israeli newcomer families. Activities include robotics, chess, and art, aimed at kids aged 3-17.
Securing Our Place in Canadian Society
243
antisemitic incidents reported to the Jewish Security Network (February to July 2025)
118%
increase in perception of antisemitism since October 7th
60%
decline in feeling of safety since October 7th
Through our network of partner organizations and grassroots groups, UJA is mobilizing to push anti-Jewish hate back to the margins of society and ensure our community remains secure.
This includes:
- Advocating for our community on campus, in the workforce, and at all levels of government while holding our adversaries accountable in legal, civic, and public arenas
- Mobilizing community members, Jewish activists, and allies to take meaningful action against hate
- Strengthening our community from kindergarten to campus. This includes investing in initiatives like the Jewish Security Network (JSN), an agency dedicated to transforming our collective security through training volunteers, hardening physical infrastructure, and monitoring and managing threats
“Jewish schools are targets of graffiti, vandalism, bomb threats, and shootings at school buildings.”
— A Survey on Antisemitism in Ontario’s K-12 Schools.*
* Brym, R. (2025). A Survey on Antisemitism in Ontario’s K-12 Schools. Canadian Jewish Studies / Études Juives Canadiennes, 41. Commissioned by the Office of the Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, Government of Canada, here.
Strengthening Jewish Pride
93%
of Jewish community members rate their Jewish identity as very important—a 16% increase since pre-October 7th
10,000+
students enrolled in Jewish day schools (both UJA-funded and non-funded)
25%
increase in enrolment at UJA-funded non-Orthodox schools since 2019
UJA is working to ensure all those seeking Jewish experiences are welcomed, from receiving PJ Library books, to enjoying summer camp, to joining OneTable Shabbat dinners. We’re making Jewish experiences more accessible by:
- Investing in scholarships to increase affordability
- Expanding capacity to welcome more participants to Jewish day schools and summer camps
- Developing new programs to engage community members of all backgrounds and fill growing needs
“OneTable has helped me get more in touch with my Jewish heritage, which I am so thankful for. The Jewish community is made up of many different groups, with different sets of values, and I'm grateful to be able to connect with Judaism in such an open and accepting way.”
— OneTable program participant
OneTable, in partnership with UJA, empowers Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s to build community through Shabbat dinner. Through an online platform, community members can sign up to host or be hosted.
Lifting Up Jews Experiencing Vulnerability
20,000+
Jewish community members are struggling financially
1 in 10
seniors live below the poverty line
6,000+
community members aged 15–44 experience mental health issues
UJA is increasing investments in our network of social service agencies, which provide crucial services to our community’s vulnerable, including:
- Food deliveries and gift cards
- Supplementary financial assistance
- Mental health training for professionals
- Holocaust survivor care
“The impact of this grant on our community has been both meaningful and far-reaching. Camp staff and campers directly benefited from the comprehensive neurodiversity and mental health training provided.”
— Camp George senior staff member
UJA distributes grants to partner organizations such as schools, camps, and synagogues so staff can receive mental health training.
For more information, access our research reports here. Be sure to check back for updates on research insights.
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