Mill Hill East Jewish Community finds a permanent home
United Synagogue's purchase of Canada Villa from Barnet Council marks an 'historic moment' and 'incredible milestone' for MHEJC's nearly 500 members
The Mill Hill East Jewish Community has found a new permanent home, after successfully completing the purchase of a former youth centre and community hub from Barnet Council.
It’s welcome news for MHEJC, who have been renting there temporarily since the community’s inception in 2016 and now have a base to provide religious services, educational programming and community events throughout the week.
The United Synagogue was able to fund the purchase of the site, formerly the Canada Villa Youth and Community Centre before it closed, from the sale of other community assets, moving investment from parts of London where Jewish demographics have declined, and reinvesting charitable funds in areas of Jewish growth.
In nine years, MHEJC has expanded to nearly 500 adult members and fundraising will now begin to turn the new building into a space where the congregation will continue to thrive.
Community co-chairs Andy Simon and Joseph Leigh said: “This building has been the heart of our community since its inception, and now, it will be our home for generations to come. This is a historic moment for our community and we thank the United Synagogue for their immense support.
“The purchase marks an incredible milestone which we will celebrate in due course, but it is also just the beginning. We now start the exciting process of working with our members to turn the building into a place that is perfectly suited to our community. We can’t wait to build this future together!”
Saul Taylor, President of the United Synagogue, said the purchase of Canada Villa “secures a long-term base for the Mill Hill East Jewish Community. The acquisition transforms a borrowed space into a permanent spiritual and communal home and ensures continuity and stability for the growing and vibrant community.”
Rabbi Jack and Rivka Cohen were appointed as the community’s Rabbinic couple in 2022.
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