In just a few days, we will celebrate Chanukah. We will light our menorahs, placing them in our windows for all to see.
Unfortunately, as you read this, the image of flames burning brightly has caused tremendous pain and suffering throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. We stand ready to help those who need us because that is an essential Federation value and commitment.
The Chanukah story is about the miracle that happened long ago when a small cruse of oil burned for eight days. During this time when we are all impacted by the natural disasters we continue to face, we need to remember the miracles that we make happen together every day.
Every day through our work, we are making the invisible, visible.
They live among us, but we don’t always see them. They are families that continue to struggle financially. They are frail elderly and homebound Holocaust survivors. They are our growing number of children and adults facing learning, physical, and emotional challenges. They are young people and young couples searching for relevant and personal ways to connect to our community.
Our Federation sees them — and we are committed to making their lives better and more “Jewish.”
We help light the flame, but you are the cruse of oil. As a community, we help the menorah burn bright.
This coming week, when you stand before your lit menorah, I hope you see the faces of those whose lives we touch. On their behalf, I thank you and wish you and yours a joyous Chanukah — and that the days ahead bring calm to our community and our world.
Happy Chanukah,
Jay
