Missing Israel? Then put it on video

UJIA HAS partnered with Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue in a project to maintain a connection with Israel while travel remains restricted.

Through the “What I Miss” programme, members have created short videos of places in Israel they most long to return to. The films will be shown to those who benefit from the charity’s backing, who will make their own videos explaining how much they miss the visits from UJIA representatives and supporters.

“This project has made us really think about how much we’ve missed Israel this year,” said BES member Eddie Hammerman. “It’s been the first year in over 15 years that we were not in Israel for Pesach. Not knowing when we could jump on a flight to get back has taken its toll on all of us, especially because of not seeing parents, siblings and extended family.

“Trying to work out how and when quarantine windows allow travel between the UK and Israel has been near on impossible. In the meantime, we are really happy for [our video] to be shared with the UJIA projects in Northern Israel.”

UJIA senior fundraiser and BES member Elliot Shorrick said it was important to maintain links between UK and Israeli communities.

Aware that many BES members were missing Israel, Borehamwood minister Rabbi Alex Chapper had “instigated this wonderful initiative. I hope it reinvigorates the connection between not only friends and family in Israel but also with the work of UJIA and the people whose lives we are changing.”