BLOOMFIELD - Beth Hillel Synagogue of Bloomfield has been selected from among 76 synagogues to receive a $3,000 grant from United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) to support the shul's Israeli affairs programs.

The synagogue runs a host of programs throughout the year that aim to increase interest in and knowledge of Israel. The "Ma'alot, Taking Steps Towards Increasing Israel Awareness" grant is a program of the USCJ Israel Commission in partnership with Nefesh B'Nefesh. In addition to its programs, Beth Hillel has also created a sister congregation relationship with Kehilat Ha Kerem, a Conservative Masorti congregation in Karmiel, Israel. Students in the shul's religious school have established an ongoing relationship with students at Kehilat Ha Kerem in Israel via cards, skype and e-mails.