Strategic philanthropy is helping drive long-term educational transformation across northern Israel. As part of UJA's commitment to the Pan-Canadian initiative supporting the rehabilitation of northern Israel, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto joined the Jewish Federations of Montreal, British Columbia, and Coast to Coast, each making a $5 million investment across a portfolio of transformational initiatives. Out of the $20 million collective investment, $1 million was allocated towards work with HaBaita to establish a regional network of educational excellence centres across the Galilee. This investment has helped to secure a historic NIS$ 88 million ($44 million), four-year commitment from Israel's Ministry of Education to establish regional hubs of excellence in STEM, advanced technology, sports, and the arts across the Eastern and Western Galilee. 

By partnering with like-minded organizations with a shared belief in sustainable, long-term philanthropy—and by investing alongside organizations with the expertise, credibility, and government relationships to influence systems—UJA can leverage philanthropic dollars into transformational public investment. Rather than funding programs alone, this approach helps build permanent infrastructure to help support communities for generations. 

This March, an additional allocation of $1 million was approved towards HaBaita’s work in northern Israel—supporting educational initiatives strengthening student resilience, advancing a holistic approach to education and mental health, and providing professional development and support for educators. 

There is hope that—like the outcomes of the excellence centres—these initiatives will be adopted, scaled up, and sustained through the support from Israel's Ministry of Education along with our philanthropic efforts. 

The tangible impact of thoughtful, strategic philanthropy can already be seen in the rehabilitation and future resilience of Israel's northern communities.