In these times, when antisemitism feels heavier and closer than ever, something extraordinary is quietly happening at Ve’ahavta.

We serve people of all faiths. And for many of our clients, we are their first encounter with the Jewish community. They might arrive knowing nothing about us—or carrying ideas shaped by stereotypes, misinformation and things they’ve seen online.

But, then they meet us.
A volunteer offering a warm meal with a smile.
An outreach worker who remembers their name and how they like their coffee.
A social worker who listens without judgment.
An organization filled with people who go above and beyond to help them.

They are welcomed. Cared for. Treated with dignity and compassion—no matter the colour of their skin, where they have come from, or what they believe—but simply because they are human and they matter.

That experience changes something deep inside them.

The next time they see or hear something hateful about Jews, they think of us. They remember the kindness, the care, and the love they experienced firsthand. And they speak up—and stand up—for us.

We never set out to do this. We are in the business of helping people move from homelessness and poverty to stability, and from social assistance to employment. But it turns out that the work we do not only changes lives; it changes minds and hearts, too. It creates allies.

In this video, you’ll hear directly from our clients, how their experience with Ve’ahavta shaped the way they see Jews and the Jewish community.

This Rosh Hashanah, I want to remind you that you are doing something deeply meaningful. When you give to Ve’ahavta, you’re not only helping someone find stability and dignity. You’re giving them a first-hand experience of the Jewish community that will shape the way they see the world forever.

You have the power not just to change lives, but to change minds and hearts, break down prejudices, build allies, and protect our Jewish future.

Shana Tova U’Metuka — may your New Year be filled with sweetness and courage.

Warmly, 

Cari Kozierok,
CEO, Ve’ahavta