Project Spotlight: Passover During Wartime 

IFCJ Canada  |  April 10, 2026

Israelis gathered with their families and loved ones to celebrate Passover. However, this year was different. Seder tables were set in safe shelters as Iran unleashed its largest barrage of strikes since the war began. 

In northern Israel, entire communities have been displaced due to Hezbollah attacks carried out on behalf of the Islamic Republic, choosing this sacred time of Jewish observance and celebration of freedom to strike. During times like this, it’s not about escaping the darkness but finding light within it. 

Last week, IFCJ Canada helped bring that light by supporting Passover food and holiday assistance for more than 2,300 families—reaching over 9,000 people with nourishment, care, and the essentials needed to observe the holiday with dignity. 

As part of the broader Fellowship family’s response on the ground, Fellowship Israel staff traveled to the northern city of Kiryat Shmona, near the Lebanese border. Many residents remain sheltering in protected spaces for days at a time under the constant threat of rocket fire, and as a result, families are spending Passover inside shelters.  

With 900 meals prepared, staff set the tables and shared the Seder with families, elderly residents, and children. In addition to Passover essentials like matzah and grape juice, the meals included chicken, vegetables, and soft drinks. 

“We want to say thank you to The Fellowship,” said Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern, “Thank for helping us do a Passover dinner and thank you for all the partnership—we appreciate it very much.” 

“Observe the month of Aviv and celebrate the Passover of the Lord your God, because in the month of Aviv he brought you out of Egypt by night” (Deuteronomy 16:1).