Toronto Hebrew Benevolent Society
Est 1899
Est 1899
IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE JEWISH SECURITY NETWORK
February 28, 2026
Dear Community Leaders
We are aware of and closely monitoring the escalating situation in the Middle East following the commencement of military action involving the Islamic Republic of Iran. Experience has shown that developments of this nature can sometimes lead to increased tensions abroad, including protests and heightened antisemitic rhetoric within diaspora communities.
At this time, we have no information indicating any specific or credible threat to the Jewish community locally. However, out of an abundance of caution, we have requested increased law enforcement presence in and around key Jewish institutions and communal areas.
We encourage our community to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Institutions should take this opportunity to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place, including:
Maintaining strict access control at all times — doors and entry points should remain closed, locked, and monitored
Ensuring staff, security personnel, and volunteer teams are properly briefed
Reviewing emergency procedures and confirming that roles and responsibilities are clearly understood
Reporting any suspicious or unusual activity without hesitation
Strong security is about preparedness, not fear. By remaining alert, disciplined, and coordinated, we help ensure our community continues to function confidently and proudly.
If you see something, say something — without delay. Trust your instincts and report concerns immediately:
Notify on-site security, police officers, or community security volunteers
Contact JSN’s 24/7 Security Operations Centre: 437-222-3999
In an emergency, always call 911 first
Any information that is non-emergency and not time sensitive can also be reported through our online reporting form
JSN will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as required.
Sincerely,
JSN Management
Event: Comedy Night with Yohay Sponder
May 7 at 7:30pm
For more information, email teliasoph@friendsofjnfca.org with Subject Yohay Sponder
Perry - THBS Website Adminstrator
During the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries, large numbers of Jews immigrated to North America. Among these Jewish immigrants, it became common practice to establish mutual benefit societies.
In return for annual dues, members received assistance in several areas, such as medical or financial expenses, as well as cemetery privileges and community social programs.
Incorporated in 1899, the Toronto Hebrew Benevolent Society (THBS) was the first Jewish mutual benefit society in Ontario not associated with a particular synagogue. The first meeting of the Toronto Hebrew Benevolent Society took place in January 1899 and the Society received its charter from the Ontario Government in February 1899.
The members were mostly immigrants from eastern Europe; the original thirty-five members were all cloak makers. In addition to its sick benefits and burial functions, the THBS also provided organized social programs for the community.
125 years later, the THBS is still active today, offers social events, meetings, and charity work and continues to maintain its cemetery properties and provide burial plots. It supports several organizations, such as Beit Halochem, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Israel Cancer Research Fund, and United Jewish Appeal, among others.
To find out how to be a member, please contact us.
We are thankful that all 20 living hostages have returned home, bringing a measure of peace. Please pray for the return of the remains of those who were murdered in captivity
Stay tuned for more updates coming soon!