Couple Begins Activity in Toronto

Jewish Tribune

Chabad Lubavitch of Markham has launched a new branch in the Bayview-Steeles area, under the leadership of Rabbi Yehuda and Chayala Zarchi.

Chabad decided to establish the new branch, which is on Laureleaf Road, in the hopes that it will attract the thousands of unaffiliated Jews who live along the Bayview corridor and serve as a centre where they can explore Jewish life.

According to Rabbi Avraham E. Plotkin, director of Chabad Lubavitch of Markham, “The chief threat to the survival and continuity of the Jewish nation is assimilation and intermarriage.”

He added that “Jewish families living along Bayview and Leslie Avenues are especially vulnerable… due to their lack of association and affiliation with the Jewish community.”

The Chabad Laureleaf branch offers a host of different programs – including classes, cultural events, youth programs, and Chessed projects – that seek to instill an appreciation for Jewish culture and heritage in those who have never received a Jewish education.

Chabad recently said that the new branch will also host High Holiday Services in the fall.

“We are looking to augment and enrich the Jewish community through a host of community programming and social activities,” said Chayala Zarchi, co-director of Chabad of Laureleaf.

“It is our vision to…establish a centre of Jewish living and learning, a place where one can explore his or her Jewish heritage in an accepting, non-judgmental environment.