Supporting Israelis in the GTA fleeing the war
JIAS stands in solidarity with Israelis here and abroad
NEW MEASURES for Israelis in Canada, December 2023: READ HERE
We stand in solidarity with Israelis here and abroad. The violence perpetrated by Hamas terrorists in Israel on Oct. 7 has no place in this world. We pray for the release of Israeli hostages, for the safety of all those fighting terror, and for an end to this war and to the suffering of all innocent civilians.
Since October 7, JIAS has coordinated a community-wide, centralized response to meet the urgent and upcoming needs of individuals fleeing the war in Israel. We have collected the data needed to provide support to Israelis in Canada in an efficient and expedited manner. This data has helped us work with our partners, such as the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, UJA Genesis, Jewish Schools and Daycares, JCCs, and other community organizations, to create a holistic response.
We have been granted special funding from UJA Federation of Greater Toronto to meet the needs of Israelis fleeing the war regardless of their legal status in Canada. This means that even visitors can benefit from our services and those of other Jewish community organizations.
Attention: Israelis who have fled the war and are in Canada
Together, JIAS and UJA have been assessing needs on an individual basis and providing access to a range of supports, such as help with childcare, schooling, programs for seniors, short-term accommodations, and mental health supports.
Below is a list of entitlements and supports available to you listed by visa status.
*** After reviewing the information, please review and fill out our online form. This form is crucial for our ability to stay in touch with you with important updates and community support available to you
In Canada on a Visitor Visa?
Returning Canadian Citizens with Canadian Citizen/PR Children and/or spouses
Medical - You can apply for OHIP.
Housing - We have very limited access to emergency, short term housing reserved for those without any housing solution. JIAS provides guidance to help newcomers secure long term housing.
Schooling and daycare - JIAS can advise on both public and Jewish school options.
Canadian Citizens whose children and/or spouses are NOT Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents and are currently in Canada or Israel
Immigration – A family member coming with you on a VISITOR Visa will be eligible to change status, but this is a process that takes several months
Medical - You need to purchase private medical coverage or extend your travel insurance for non-Canadian family members.
Housing - We have very limited access to emergency, short term housing reserved for those without any housing solution. JIAS provides guidance to help newcomers secure long term housing.
Schooling and daycare - JIAS can advise on both public and Jewish school options.
Israelis who are in Canada on a work/study permit or plan to arrive soon
Please note that visitors who have applied for the special measures work/study permits are NOT eligible for OHIP (free medical care) or free public education while applications are in process. Prior to June 2024, it was possible to register children with the public school boards with proof of an application; as of June 2024, proof of work/study permit approval is required.
If you are our client, please contact your settlement worker.
If you are not our client, please fill out this form.
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