The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is excited to welcome Eriel Ben-Gal as the new coordinator for PJ Library, one of its cornerstone programs. PJ Library provides free, high-quality Jewish-themed books and resources to families with young children, fostering Jewish learning and connection.
Although new to the Federation, Ben-Gal brings over 10 years of experience working with children and youth. Originally from the Toronto area, she has lived across Ontario before settling in Ottawa.
“I have always been drawn to building programs that are accessible for families, and PJ Library fulfils that mission,” said Ben-Gal. She admires PJ Library’s inclusivity and support for families of diverse backgrounds and structures, noting how deeply its mission aligns with her own values.
Since stepping into her role, Ben-Gal has already made an impact. She led a hike at the Mer Bleue Conservation Area, where she read a story to families before taking a walk through the scenic bog. She also hosted her first Babies & Bagels event, a popular gathering that attracted several newcomers, including first-time moms. “Both events provided me with an opportunity to meet some really great families and their wonderful children,” she said, adding that she looks forward to connecting with more families at future events.
Ben-Gal is planning several Chanukah-themed activities this December, including another Babies & Bagels event on Dec. 11 in the Greenberg Family Library and the Chanukah Family Celebration at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre on Dec. 15.
Looking ahead, she is excited to announce the return of PJ Our Way, a program for children aged 9 –12. Sessions will run on the last Sunday of each month from January to April 2025. “Families can look forward to an exciting schedule of events throughout the new year,” said Ben-Gal.
To stay up to date, families are encouraged to check the Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s calendar, which is regularly updated with the latest PJ Library programming.
When asked for tips to share with families ahead of Chanukah, Ben-Gal suggested a creative spin on a classic: “One mom trick that has been passed onto me is to add carrots and zucchini to my latkes. It still has that great fried potato taste, but with secret veggies for the kids!”
Growing up in a Moroccan-Sephardic household, Ben-Gal also shared fond memories of holiday treats like sfinge and sbekia.
“My grandmother would make traditional Moroccan desserts, and the smell of fried dough and sugar brings me such nostalgia. It puts a smile on my face,” she said. Sfinge, like doughnuts, are fried pastries with a hole in the middle, typically covered in powdered sugar or honey. Sbekia, on the other hand, are crispy, fried cookies drizzled with honey and sesame seeds — a perfect addition to the Chanukah table.
The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is thrilled to have Eriel Ben-Gal leading PJ Library and looks forward to the energy and creativity she will bring to the program.
To reach Eriel Ben-Gal, email her at eben-gal@jewishottawa.com.