A record-setting 20,000 people participated in Toronto’s 46th annual Walk with Israel fundraising event on Sunday, eclipsing last year’s record of 17,000.

Organized by UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, the event raised approximately $1.1 million for Israeli charities, including, for example, the establishment of educational opportunities for at-risk youth, the Canadian Jewish News reported.

Dignitaries who addressed the pre-walk crowd at Coronation Park shortly after 9 a.m. included Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, who recently led a week-long trade mission to Israel that generated more than $87 million in business deals for Ontario in areas such as high-tech, education and medicine.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also addressed the audience via a prepared statement read by Member of Parliament Carolyn Bennett.

“Canada has been a friend of Israel for almost seven decades, through triumph and tragedy. We will continue to stand with Israel, one of our closest friends and partners, thanks to our shared values and the presence of a dynamic and thriving Jewish Canadian community,” he stated.

By: United with Israel Staff
(With files from the Canadian Jewish News)