Members can help by donating to the 2024 Annual High Holy Day Appeal.

In recent years, Jewish community organizations have grappled with escalating security expenses due to global events and rising threats. The events of October 7, 2023, however, have had a particularly profound impact on Beth Tzedec, compelling the congregation to significantly bolster its security measures to ensure member safety.

“Security, that sense of congregational wellbeing, has always been a priority for Beth Tzedec,” explains Executive Director Phil David. “But the current climate has pushed us to upgrade our infrastructure and monitoring systems, hire additional staff, and engage off-duty police during Shabbat and other events.”

The dramatic rise in costs, driven by an alarming increase in antisemitism, was not anticipated in Beth Tzedec’s five-year strategic plan. While security measures have had to expand significantly, David emphasizes that Beth Tzedec’s Membership Contribution levels have remained static for over a decade.

"The surge in security needs was unforeseen, and it's crucial for our members to understand that while we haven't increased membership dues, the money still needs to come from somewhere.”

Although Beth Tzedec has invested funds that may be accessed to manage unforeseen expenses, David emphasizes that tapping into these reserves is a last resort. “Our savings represent generations of congregational investment and are meant for our long-term future. Relying on these funds now will have an impact on our future sustainability.”

Fortunately, Beth Tzedec can rely on the generosity of its donors. In December 2023, we launched the Emergency Security Fund to address the urgent and sudden need for increased measures to ensure congregational safety. The initial response was incredibly generous, but the fund was never intended to cover such a long-term crisis and is quickly being depleted. According to David, the congregation’s financial assistance is once again requested.

“I know so many members want to help us in any way they can,” he said. “The best and simplest way is to generously donate to the 2024 Annual High Holy Day Appeal which directly funds Beth Tzedec’s core priorities, including helping to provide for our security costs. Or you can still donate to the Emergency Security Fund. Either way, your gifts are helping to protect our community.”

David reminds members that by contributing, they are not only helping to keep Beth Tzedec safe but also enabling the synagogue to continue thriving during what could otherwise prove to be difficult financial circumstances. "Congregants should keep in mind that without their support, we could be in a position where we'd have to cut elsewhere from the synagogue. Fortunately, our generous donors have so far allowed us to continue to thrive and grow. People who give should know how greatly they improve community life for everyone."

Beth Tzedec is grateful to all its donors who are helping us achieve our mission of inspiring and enabling our community to live meaningful Jewish lives.

To make your 2024 gift to the Annual High Holy Day Appeal, visit https://bt.crowdchange.ca/beth-tzedec or contact Jonny Ain, Director of Development, at jain@beth-tzedec.org or (416) 781-3514 (Ext. 229).