The past few months have been a time of pain and adversity for people living in Southern Israel. Since March, thousands of acres of farmland have been scorched by incendiary kites and balloons, destroying agricultural fields and nature reserves. Adding to this destruction is the recent resurgence of rockets fired from Gaza, including the most intense barrage since the 2014 conflict.

As we approach the Jewish High Holidays, we are mindful that thousands of Israeli families are living in fear for their safety, concerned about their livelihoods, and coping with trauma, even as they hope and pray for peace. We want them to know that they are not alone. As members of a global Jewish community, this is a time for us to reflect on our connections to one another as a people united by a shared history and faith.

With this in mind, CJP is launching Sweet Messages for a Sweeter New Year, an initiative to reach out to people in Southern Israel with notes of comfort and encouragement.

Your family can participate by writing a letter or drawing a picture with a message of love and support that CJP will deliver to families living in Southern Israel. Together, we will let them know that while we may be physically distant, we are closely connected.

Not sure what to write? Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Wishing you shanah tovah u’metukah (a sweet and happy new year) from our family to yours.
  • Wishing you ahava (love) and best wishes from your friends in Boston.
  • We may be far away, but our hearts are with you.

We encourage you to create a personalized letter, but if it’s helpful, use our coloring page template.

Mail your letter by Sunday, September 30, 2018, to:

CJP Israel
Combined Jewish Philanthropies
Kraft Family Building
126 High Street
Boston, MA 02110-2700

You can also scan and email your letter to israel@cjp.org.

Let us approach this new year with solidarity and compassion.

Wishing you and your family a shana tovah u’metukah (a good and sweet new year).

May the coming year bring all of us health, happiness, and peace.