This is an unprecedented time that demands an extraordinary response. The Jewish Federation is committed to providing essential resources throughout this time of need and is coordinating with all Jewish-affiliated organizations, schools, synagogues and agencies in the region to assess and address emerging needs.
Most importantly, we want to make sure you are aware of the resources available for all of us as we navigate the current conditions. Visit jewishphilly.org/coronavirus for ongoing updates including tools for families and children; volunteer opportunities; resources for students and young adults; offerings from local synagogues; and resources for older adults, those now finding themselves food insecure or displaced from work.
If you are able, we ask you to join us in our life-saving work by making a gift to the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund so we can continue this critical work. A mailbox for contributions has been posted on our Jewish Federation website: jewishphilly.org/donate-now-covid-19-emergency-fund/. Please know that 100% of proceeds raised through this fund will go directly toward the COVID-19 response efforts. The Jewish Federation will not take a fee to facilitate the distribution of dollars raised.
We are at the beginning of what will certainly be a long road for our community. At this moment, we know the financial needs facing us will be significant. We are still working collaboratively with our community partners to identify hard costs, with the knowledge that these will change and increase over time.
While we are all aware of the uncertainty that COVID-19 is having on the financial markets, the dire needs of the community and those most at risk remain paramount. With your generosity, we will be able to ensure the safety and strength of our Jewish communities and those most directly affected by the risks presented.
A gift of any size will have an immediate impact and will support many at-risk populations, including:
Seniors and other members of our communities who are homebound due to their high risk of contracting the virus
Our food-insecure populations already being served by our agencies and by us
Those who now find themselves food insecure due to a loss of wages and or jobs, or loss of income as small business owners
People with developmental or physical disabilities whose regular care may be interrupted
Those who are served by community programs that run on the power of
volunteers who are no longer able to carry out this important work.
Working together, with your generosity, we will address and meet the most critical needs as they arise. Thank you for helping us Carry the Light.
If you have a question about making a gift to the emergency fund, please contact Donor Services at 215-832-0521 or 215-832-0865. If you have questions about volunteering or need to be connected to services, contact 215-832-0852. These numbers are landlines at our offices which are being forwarded to our amazing staff who are working remotely.
Stay safe and stay healthy.
JRA Updates its Hunger Fighting Efforts
We are proud to share an update of the incredible work taking place at the Jewish Relief Agency in Philadelphia. Volunteers have the ability to make a huge impact, so if you are healthy and available, visit jewishphilly.org/coronavirus to find a list of available opportunities.
From JRA Philly: In the midst of chaos, you can’t stop our incredible volunteers from supporting JRA’s mission to relieve hunger. Practicing social distancing, five to 10 individuals packed boxes of food each day at the JRA warehouse. In total, 30 individuals were able to pack 3,653 boxes within six days. Thank you to all of our box packers and delivery drivers who have answered our call to service. Refer to jewishrelief.org for updated information about our Sunday food distribution. #WeDeliver
