A summer of fun — thanks to UJIA’s backing
UJIA’S SUPPORT has helped more than 30 youth programmes to take place across the UK this summer, compensating in part for the cancellation of Israel tours because of Covid concerns.
The £150,000 Summer Engagement Fund was distributed among youth movements, synagogues, primary and secondary schools, charities and special educational needs groups in London, Leeds, Manchester, Merseyside and Scotland.
“We were determined that this summer would be an opportunity for our young people to have fun, informal education and Israel engagement, despite the pandemic,” explained chief executive Mandie Winston.
“We are so proud of our partners in the youth movements and across the community for the amazing job they have done up and down the country under really challenging circumstances. We can’t wait to start resuming trips to Israel and making up for lost time.”
Going forward, UJIA has pledged increased investment to boost the numbers of young people taking part in organised trips to Israel.
As travel restrictions eased, the charity wanted to give as many young people as possible “the Israel experiences they need to become the Jewish leaders of tomorrow”, Ms Winston said.
“We’re pledging extra bursaries for gap year programmes and Israel Tour 2022 so that cost will not prohibit anyone from participating. We will guarantee more places on Birthright programmes and new schemes in Israel to support post-university career development.”
The goal was to facilitate 10,000 such visits to Israel over the next three years.
We can’t wait to restart trips to Israel, making up for lost time’