The Canadian Jewish organization Federation CJA held its annual Women’s Philanthropy Tov Hanukkah gift drive last week, distributing hundreds of presents to members of Montreal’s Jewish community. Over 50 volunteers got into the Hanukkah spirit by joining together and packing baskets filled with donated items.
“Women’s Philanthropy has for many years ensured to spread some joy around the holiday season,” Federation CJA Director of Women’s Philanthropy Myriam Ifrah told JNS. “It started out in small groups asking for specific gifts for some of the Chai Lifeline families and grew every year to start including other groups in our community.”
Among the gifts this year that were packaged included hundreds of toys for children. Adults received all sorts of fun items such as bluetooth speakers, scarves, travel mugs and beauty products.
Volunteers also ensured to provide many candles, menorahs and Hanukkah cookies.
“The gift drive for the past two years has been multilayered,” said Ifrah. “Not only did we ask community members to drop off new toys, but we also gave them the opportunity to donate funds towards funding gifts for teens. Often toys dropped off target younger children and teens are overlooked.”
Among the organizations to receive donated adult gift bags were Cummings Jewish Centre for Seniors, Agence Ometz, Association Les Anges d’Esther and Chai Lifeline.