Frequently Asked Questions About the Gift of Israel

What is the Gift of Israel program?
The Gift of Israel program is an Israel savings program. It allows families with children in 3rd-6th grade an opportunity, to set aside a fixed amount every year for their child to participate in a future program in Israel.

What is the family’s requirement for the Gift of Israel program?
The parent or guardian is required to live in the Rochester area, and to make a minimum annual contribution of $150.00 dollars a year.

How will the Jewish Community Federation contribute to my child’s Gift of Israel  account?
For every year of active participation the Jewish Community Federation will contribute 150.00 dollars to your child’s Gift of Israel account.

What is considered “active participation” in the Gift of Israel program?
For your child’s account to be considered “active” the family must make the minimum contribution of $150.00 dollars each year by May 1st. You must contribute each year through 10th grade. Any contributions after 10th grade are optional.

Who coordinates the Gift of Israel program?
Nationally, the Gift of Israel is administered by birthright israel, an international organization which promotes Israel experiences for young people. Locally, the Gift of Israel program is coordinated by Josh Boress, Coordinator of Teen Education and Israel
Trips, at the Jewish Community Federation of Greater Rochester.

How do I use funds from my Gift of Israel account?
Using funds is easy. Once you have chosen an approved Israel program, families must send a letter or tuition statement confirming the Gift of Israel enrollee’s participation. Please give Jewish Education Services at least 60 days notice prior to date of payment to approved Israel programs to process your account. An “approved Israel program” includes all programs that: include an educational component; are organized by a non-profit, education or religious institution. Participating families are encouraged to meet with Josh Boress to choose an Israel experience that best suites your child.

Can my child use funds from their Gift of Israel account after they graduate from  high school?
Yes, you may use funds from your Gift of Israel account until your child is 21 years old.

What happens if my family moves?
If your family moves away, there is a possibility to transfer your funds to a similar program in a new location. If there is no similar program, you may continue to deposit funds into your child’s account, but Federation funds will only be added for the time prior to your move.

What happens if we wish to exit from the Gift of Israel program?
You may withdraw the funds from your child’s account and exit the program if you wish. Upon withdrawal, all rights to Federation funds are forfeited.

Download your complete Gift of Israel Information Packet now.

How can I enroll my child in the Gift of Israel program and start saving for Israel?
Enrolling is easy! All you need to do is fill out and sign the Participant Agreement Form, Participant Account Application along with your first contribution (at least $150.00 dollars), made payable to:

Gift of Israel Program
Jewish Community Federation of Greater Rochester
441 East Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607

For questions or more information please contact Josh Boress, Coordinator of Teen
Education and Israel Trips Jboress@Jewishrochester.org or 461-0490 x249