Chanukah commemorates a pivotal moment in Jewish history—a victory over those who sought to wipe us out. It is a celebration of light triumphing over darkness. The Chanukah story reminds us that just as our ancestors overcame oppression, we too can emerge victorious. With each of the eight nights, we add another light to the chanukiah, gradually pushing back the darkness and reinforcing our belief that light will always overcome darkness, bringing peace and hope to the world.
This year, as we celebrate, we do so amid a world that feels weighed down by darkness.
Sadly, we are reminded of a time not so long ago when antisemitism and anti-Zionism were less visible, and we took for granted that hatred would never rise to such dangerous levels again. But antisemitism is a societal problem, and tolerating, ignoring, or denying it allows hate, scapegoating, and dangerous ideologies to flourish, threatening the very foundation of our democracy. To combat antisemitism, we must speak up—every one of us must stand strong.
YOU are the light for your family and friends. In moments of need, you offer help, and in times of uncertainty, you offer comfort. As we prepare to celebrate Chanukah, you have the opportunity to be that same light for your extended Jewish family, especially for those who need us now more than ever—whether they are here at home, in Israel, or in communities around the world. I encourage you to be the light for those who never thought they would need to rely on others for support.
We must remain a light.
Federation-supported initiatives are helping make the world a better, brighter place, and they are only possible through the collective efforts and generosity of our community. From providing for those in need to inspiring the next generation of Jewish leaders, our Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs highlights the many ways that Federation-backed programming, alongside the work of our community members, brings light to the world.
Together, we can shine a light and dispel the darkness.
Through agencies like Jewish Family Service (JFS), the Jewish Day School (JDS), and the Jewish Community Center (JCC), we continue to bring light to our community, staying connected and offering support to one another.
This Chanukah, we ask you, our generous community members, to add your light by making a contribution to Federation. Through our 2025 Campaign for Jewish Needs, your support will provide essential resources to local agencies and synagogues, and help:
• Care for those in need
Providing food for those in need, counseling for families in crisis, and support services for older adults, and helping disabled individuals and their families
• Building a vibrant Jewish community
Encouraging young readers—PJ Library, making Jewish education and camp affordable, teaching teens to stand up for Israel, connecting people to their heritage
• Bringing people together
Providing volunteer opportunities to help others, traveling to Israel on missions, supporting our Partnership2Gether family in Yoav, creating lasting friendships
• Responding to emergencies
Providing relief and healing from Israel to Ukraine and when local disaster strikes
This Chanukah, you are a light that heals. You are a light that brings relief in times of need. This is a reminder for us all to continually and increasingly bring more light to others. Thank you in advance for your generosity and for being the light that helps us to be Here for Good.
Chag Urim Sameach!