“Thank you very, very much”

IFCJ Canada  |  August 13, 2026

Hannah is 93. But she still greets every visitor to her small Jerusalem apartment with a friendly smile and her story.

Born in Algeria, Hannah grew up in a single, crowded room that she shared with her mother, grandmother, and younger brother. Her father passed away when Hannah was young — too young to even remember his face.

Hannah experienced WWII as only a child could have — early curfews, empty cupboards, and nights when her mother returned home with only a handful of flour. Hannah learned to bake bread before she learned to read. At age 7, Hannah sold loaves of bread on the street. It was her way to help her family survive.

Hannah carried those memories with her when she moved to Israel in 1948. She married young and had six children by the time she turned 24. The skills she learned in childhood were put to work as a parent. She stretched every food coupon, took every odd job she could find, and worked hard to provide for her family. And in the midst of her struggles, Hannah still found ways to help others.

Today, old age has slowed Hannah down a bit. She spends most days at home. She still bakes challah (bread) each week and sends it to hungry first responders.

And because of caring friends like you, Hannah continues to live with dignity. She told us so plainly, with the insight of someone who has known real want.

“I am older now, and it is harder to manage on my own,” she said. “The monthly help I receive from The Fellowship allows me to buy groceries. Thanks to this support, I have never gone hungry. I was never left without food.”

Your generous support is helping vulnerable Jews like Hannah find comfort, strength, and the joy of a full stomach. And from her heart, Hannah has a message for you: “Thank you very, very much. You help me greatly. Please continue.”

Please continue your support today. Your gift can help provide food, dignity, and hope to elderly Jews like Hannah who need to know they are not alone.