Record Crowd at 2015 Kitchener-Waterloo Walk for Israel
 

Despite the stormy weather, 240 people came together on June 14th at the 4th annual Kitchener-Waterloo Walk for Israel in support of youth at risk in Kiryat Shmona, Israel. The 5-kilometre walk was followed by a kosher lunch at Beth Jacob Synagogue sponsored by the Waterloo Region Jewish Community Council.  

“This year’s turnout was phenomenal! More than double from last year!” said event organizer Jeff Budd.  “It just goes to show that Kitchener-Waterloo has a vibrant and connected Jewish community.  We had a great time – even in the rain – celebrating and supporting Israel.”

The Walk for Israel was a once recurring community event in Kitchener-Waterloo. Since its revival, in 2012 the walk has raised over $40,000 for Youth Futures Kiryat Shmona.

“It’s heartening to know that Jewish community spirit is very much alive in regional communities across Canada,” said Daniel Stern, Director of Regional development at Jewish Federations of Canada – UIA. “It’s these types of community events that strengthen bonds between individual community members and deepens community connections to Israel.”

The Kitchener-waterloo Walk for Israel is sponsored by Jewish Federations of Canada – UIA, the Waterloo Region Jewish Community Council, Beth Jacob Synagogue, Temple Shalom, Chabad Waterloo and dozens of community volunteers.