On July 21st, Canadian Friends of Rambam Hospital (CFRAM) teamed up with Hillel of Greater Toronto to organize a blood drive. Jewish students and young professionals from across the Greater Toronto Area rolled up their sleeves; Canadian Blood Services reports that up to 54 patients will receive life-saving blood due to our efforts.

Twenty-somethings also learned something about Rambam Hospital. Sara Cuneo, Kohn intern at CFRAM explains, “Rambam is an excellent tool for Israel advocacy on our university campuses”.  Rambam stands out as a premiere centre of excellence which provides critical care to all those in need, no matter their ethnic background or political affiliation. In the case of the recent flotilla, Rambam hospital took in both soldiers and activists who were treated side by side. There exists many misconceptions about Israel on Canadian university campuses, and Rambam hospital stands out as a fine example of Israeli peace building.

This event also represented an excellent opportunity to learn about the need for blood donations in our immediate community. Lyla Abells, a Hillel intern states that, “We have an obligation as Jews to help others.  We hope we inspired people to donate blood who wouldn’t have otherwise and that they continue to for years to come”. Thank you to all who participated in the blood drive and BBQ. We look forward to seeing you next year!

Click here for our article in the Canadian Jewish News