Jewish Child's Day. Helping to make a Jewish child's day

Through the JCD Bar/Bat Mitzvah Twinning Project, it is possible for children from small and under-resourced communities in Eastern Europe or those with special needs in Israel to become Bar/Bat Mitzvah. In addition, children from the UK have the opportunity to learn about the lives, cultures and different Jewish experiences of their less fortunate peers, and establish a mutual understanding and respect.

Why? Because you make it happen...

The money you commit to your chosen community makes it possible for a child to become Bar/Bat Mitzvah who otherwise would not get the opportunity. More than this, it keeps religion school going so that many of their class mates will become Bar/Bat Mitzvah too. The effects of your donation to this program are far reaching and ensure that these children feel a real part of the worldwide Jewish community, something they have often been denied, and for which they are immensely grateful.

How?

The cost of twinning varies according to the community you choose to support or whether you choose to help a child with special needs become Bar/Bat mitzvah. The cost can be met in a one off donation by the family, but many Bar/Bat Mitzvah kids like to raise the money themselves through sponsored and other events. In addition, money raised can be saved in a myfund account and the UJIA will double it!

What happens next?

Once you decide to have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah twin we will pair you with suitable candidate from the community you have selected. You will receive an information pack telling you about the history of that community and what it is like today. You will receive photos and some personal information about your twin and you will be able to exchange letters. Sometimes it is possible to send emails or even have conversations via Skype. We will try to arrange for your twin's ceremony to happen on the same day as yours.

Bar/Bat mitzvah twinning makes a huge difference to the Jewish experience of children in these communities, and they are hugely proud of their heritage and Jewish identity.