Building a Brighter Future: End of Year Updates from the Jaffa Institute

School Year 5785 (2024-2025)

This fall we have ignited young minds with a series of exhilarating STEM experiences. Over 200 children in southern settlements, recently displaced by conflict, were treated to three incredible days of hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math. This initiative, in partnership with the Jewish Agency and the Fund for Victims of Terrorism, brought joy and learning to those who needed it most.

We kicked off the new school year with a bang, introducing a groundbreaking annual program focused on a single, captivating theme. This innovative approach has already garnered positive feedback from students and educators alike.

Our dedicated team of STEM enthusiasts has been hard at work, conducting over 100 engaging sessions with approximately 180 children across 3 schools and 2 community centers. Additionally, our 5 after-school clubs are buzzing with excitement as young learners explore the wonders of science.

Robotics Mobile on it's Way

As we continue to push the boundaries of STEM education, we're thrilled to announce the imminent arrival of our state-of-the-art robotics caravan and a cutting-edge 3D printer capable of printing in multiple colors. These new tools will further enhance our ability to inspire the next generation of innovators.

Rosh Hashanah Success

This Rosh Hashanah, our community came together to make a real difference. Thanks to the incredible efforts of dozens of volunteers and supporters, we were able to distribute 2,544 food packages to families in need in Tel Aviv-Yafo.

As one volunteer shared, "We made a Holocaust survivor, lovely and wonderful woman, happy". Another volunteer expressed their joy, saying, "The man was full of happiness and joy."

These heartwarming stories are a testament to the impact of our community's generosity. By coming together, we were able to bring joy and relief to those who needed it most.

A Special Thank You We extend our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to this important cause. Your compassion and kindness have truly made a difference.

Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more compassionate community.

The 2024 Hanukkah Shoe Drive is Underway

Your assistance, our partners, in promoting the campaign in recent years has contributed greatly to the well-being of hundreds of children from disadvantaged families. Every year, children eagerly await the holiday of Hanukkah to receive a pair of new, high-quality shoes. This year too, you have the ability to make the holiday of hundreds of children happy and bright.

The cost of a pair of shoes is 100 NIS ($28)

We greatly appreciate your donation.

Together we will win.

Annual Breakfast Gala in Hillcrest NY

On November 10th, over 100 friends and partners joined Mr. Mark Dayan, Chairman and the Jaffa Institute and Bet Shemesh Educational Center in celebration of the lifelong contributions of 

Dr. David J. Portowicz

Founder of the Jaffa Institute and Bet Shemesh educational Center in Israel on the occasion of his 75th Birthday.

With Keynote Speaker Rabbi Etan Schnall Ha Rav of Young Israel of Hillcrest. The benefit helped raise funds for the Bet Shemesh Education Center of the jaffa Institute in Israel.

Gala Dinner 2025 - Join us in Tel Aviv

Our Annual Gala in Tel Aviv is on January 29th 2025 at the Avenue. Purchase of a Social Involvement Sponsorship is required to attend. Please contact Yechezkel Portowicz chezky@jaffainst.co.il

Share and Connect

You can share our posts on social media, comment and like our pages and be good Ambassadors of the Jaffa Institute.

Thank you again for showing such kindness to the people we help. You make our mission possible, and we couldn’t be more grateful for amazing supporters like you.

Reconnect  with the Jaffa Institute and find more ways to get involved on our website

It's easier than ever to donate to the Jaffa Institute online from around the World

To receive a tax deductible receipt with an online donation:

Donate from Israel in English or Hebrew

Donate from the American Friends of the Jaffa Institute via paypal or credit card

Donate from Australia via Israel Gives 

Donate from Canada  via Canada Helps 

Donate from the U.K with an online donation to British Friends of the Jaffa Institute

Donate from the Netherlands with an online donation to Dutch Friends of the Jaffa Institute

Get Involved

We would love to see you. If you plan to visit us, feel free to reach out!   Learn more about the different ways you can get involved - contact us for more details.

Last year we had over 5,500 volunteers join in our programming, including volunteers from abroad who helped packed boxes at the Food Distribution Center.

Our regular volunteers include local individuals and corporate partners, who deliver food packages in our Accompanying the Elderly program, or provide engaging activities and invovlement in our Afterschool Centers and enrichment programs. These regular volunteers are often joined by visiting volunteers who come to assist.

We’re lucky to have amazing supporters like you who enable our programs to run,  helping fight food insecurity and changing the face of poverty in Israel. It takes a lot of courage to step up and start changing the world. 

Supporting the Jaffa Institute is easy!
Click the "Support Us" button above to contribute online, or mail a check to one of our
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