Program Stories

Malka’s childhood story is heart wrenching. Not only did she experience suffering and losses during World War II, but she also survived homelessness, extreme poverty and hunger during the post-war years. She tells her story and takes long pauses after each sentence, giving herself time to relive her memories.

Svetlana’s grandmother used to say, “Keep our family history, and know it well.” And that’s what Svetlana has done, passing her family history and faith to the next generations, including IFCJ Canada volunteers who visit the elderly Holocaust survivor in her humble home near the biblical city of Nazareth.

This is Roi. He might seem like a happy, confident young man, but that wasn’t always the case. He is only ready to thrive as a young Israeli because of Fellowship friends who have never forgotten him.

At just eight, Sara was brought to the Fellowship-supported Orr Shalom children’s home in Ashkelon. Her mother had passed away when Sara was a baby, and her father had been unable to care for the girl during her important formative years.

Anna lives alone in a tiny apartment in Israel. In the winter, it becomes very cold, reminding her of the frozen wasteland in Ukraine, where she survived the Holocaust as a young Jewish child. Her story of survival, told to IFCJ Canada volunteers visiting the elderly woman with lifesaving aid, is truly heart-breaking.

Isaak and Anna live in the town of Nahariya, Israel’s northernmost town on the Mediterranean coast. You might think the elderly couple live an idyllic seaside retirement, but you would be wrong.

“I now live only for my daughter, Yelyzaveta. She is the one who gives me strength to carry on..."

Polina might be 90 years old. But both the memory and voice of this sweet Jewish woman living in Israel are still strong and clear.

The Fellowship is special to Fanya. For this 83-year-old Holocaust survivor, The Fellowship has become family. Fanya is grateful to be cared for, but she’s equally grateful for the chance to share her wisdom, her experience, and even handmade toys with Fellowship volunteers.

This is Yuri. Yuri, who was forgotten for decades, after the atrocities of the Holocaust first l

Katerina remembers when her small town in Ukraine had a thriving Jewish community. She remembers the synagogue. She remembers her parents when her parents were still alive. Katerina remembers those days.

“In peace I will lie down in sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8)