The Tikvah Program provides one-time or monthly financial assistance low income Jewish people. To apply for assistance, clients must complete an ‘Application for Assistance’ form with a social worker and provide relevant financial documentation such as proof of income, notice of assessment and expense documentation.

The Tikvah Program provides one- time or monthly financial assistance for low income Jewish people. To apply for assistance, clients complete an ‘Application for Assistance’ form with a social worker and provide relevant financial documentation such as proof of income, notice of assessment and expense documentation.

Jewish Family Services offers a full range of counselling programs and resources including The Counselling Group, The Centre for Children, Youth, and Families, The Centre for Couples and Relationships, and single session support at The Walk-In Counselling Clinic.

Assistance is provided advocating on behalf of members of Jewish community and/or provided referrals to appropriate resources and professionals.

The Ezra Fund is an emergency fund for Jewish persons in extreme financial crisis. The Ezra Fund is made possible by private donations and allows us to respond quickly to those in immediate need, whether that be with rent relief, assistance with maintaining heat and hydro, or direct financial assistance.

Holiday financial assistance is provided to individuals and families who qualify through the Tikvah program. Loblaws Gift Cards or cheques are made available to assist with the added costs of celebrating the Jewish Holidays.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are available through the Miriam’s Well Fruit and Vegetable Distribution program to low income Jewish individuals and families who qualify under the Tikvah program. Miriam’s Well is open on the last Monday of every month at Agudath Israel Synagogue.

Tikvah social workers make referrals to Ottawa’s Kosher Food Bank program where members of the Jewish community in Ottawa can access kosher non-perishables food assistance, once per month. Contact Andrea Gardner to inquire about eligibility.

A Discount Card is available to all those who qualify under the Tikvah program, and is necessary in order to be able to access Miriam’s Well and the Kosher Food Bank. It can also be presented to receive discounted membership at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre and Discount Card holders may qualify for special pricing on a synagogue membership. Presenting a Discount Card at a JFS program entitles the holder to a special Tikvah rate for that program. The card is valid for one year and can be obtained or renewed by a Tikvah Worker.

For more information, contact Andrea Gardner at 613-722-2225 ext. 321. Please note: You may also be able to access Tikvah services through your JFS Social Worker.