Supporting care, stability, and dignity across our community
Across Canada, rising costs, housing pressures, and increasing isolation are impacting individuals and families in real ways. Today, over 1 in 10 Canadians live in poverty, and up to 1 in 4 households experience food insecurity, highlighting the growing need for accessible, community-based support.
In response, Jewish Federation invests nearly $1 million annually in essential social services, bringing together community expertise and resources to ensure people can access the care, support, and stability they need. This collective effort strengthens the system of support across our community and helps ensure no one is left behind.
Affordable Housing
Stability begins with a place to call home
Access to safe, affordable housing remains one of the most urgent challenges facing communities across Canada, and within our own community, the need continues to grow.
Through Tikva Housing Society, over 320 adults and 167 children are supported with stable housing, alongside programs such as the Rent Relief Program, which helped 31 households maintain housing during times of financial strain. In parallel, Yaffa Housing Society provides supportive housing for individuals facing mental health challenges, creating environments where care and stability go hand in hand.
Together, these supports go beyond providing shelter, helping individuals and families build stability, maintain dignity, and remain connected to community.
Food Security
Meeting essential needs with dignity
Food insecurity is a growing reality across British Columbia, where more than 1.3 million residents are navigating challenges accessing enough food.
Within our community, access to food support helps ensure individuals and families can meet their most basic needs during times of financial strain. Services delivered through Jewish Family Service Agency (JFS) provide consistent and reliable support, reducing stress, supporting stability, and helping people navigate difficult periods with dignity.
These supports provide consistency, reduce stress, and help people maintain dignity during difficult periods.
Mental Health & Inclusion
Care that supports the whole person
Wellbeing is shaped by both access to care and a sense of connection—1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness in any given year, underscoring the importance of accessible, community-based support.
For many, mental health challenges and periods of isolation can make it harder to fully participate in community life. Access to culturally grounded care and inclusive spaces helps create environments where individuals feel understood and supported in ways that reflect their lived experience.
Through services offered by Jewish Family Service Agency (JFS), individuals are supported with counselling, housing, and community-based care that strengthens wellbeing and reduces isolation. At the same time, inclusion programs at the Jewish Community Centre (JCC) create opportunities for individuals of all abilities to fully participate in community life, fostering connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
Seniors & Holocaust Survivors
Aging with dignity and connection
As Canada’s population ages, access to care and meaningful connections become increasingly important; nearly half of adults over 50 are at risk of social isolation, highlighting the need for supportive community-based services.
Programs delivered through the Jewish Seniors Alliance of BC, Kehila Society of Richmond, L’Chaim Adult Day Centre, and Jewish Family Services help older adults remain engaged, supported, and independent, strengthening both daily life and overall wellbeing.
For Holocaust survivors, this work carries particular significance. These services ensure access to care, recognition, and community, helping honour their experiences with dignity and respect.
Support essential services across our community
Together, these efforts help ensure that care remains accessible, responsive, and grounded in the needs of our community.
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