My friends. I write this post filled with emotion.
The loss and devastation is incomprehensible. Each bit of news, every Facebook udpate, brings more indescribable horror.
The beacon of hope in all this is the kindness, selflessness and generosity that we have witnessed – and continue to witness, again and again. Neighbors taking in neighbors; strangers opening their homes — and hearts.
If you, too, want to help, here is a list of Jewish organizations and causes shared with me by KOAB readers.
Please know that I have done my best to vet these, but I also encourage any of you considering giving money to do your own due diligence.
Achiezer
Achiezer works hand in hand with our community’s existing organizations in assisting families contending with issues such as illness, death, family discord, mental health disorders and financial crises. Achiezer unites professionals, rabbis, lay leaders and volunteers, helping families navigate through these challenging times.
There are countless families in the Five Towns, Far Rockaway, Bayswater and Long Island that are totally wiped out, having suffered crippling losses, losing homes, cars, clothing, everything. They are literally left with only the proverbial clothing on their backs and are in a shocking situation. Hundreds of others have been severely impacted.
Donate to Achiezer’s Sandy Relief Fund here.
Brighton Beach Mazel Day School
The amazing Mazel Day School in Brighton Beach my son goes to is devastated! The school needs major renovations of its classrooms, and replacement of supplies and furniture. Please donate what you can so that kids can go back to learning. Any contribution is appreciated.
Donate to the Mazel Day School HERE. Read more about the school in this JTA article.
Broad Channel
My family and over 1500 other families in Broad Channel have been a victim of hurricane Sandy. Some are all without a heat, hot water & electric and most are homeless. We will be reaching out to our politicians and large businesses for donations. Donations of blankets, non- perishable foods, diapers, clothing for all ages/ adults & kids, coats & any other donation will be greatly appreciated. These donations can be sent to the Attention of: Broad Channel Athletic Club Donations 125 Crossbay Blvd Broad Channel, NY 11693.
Dorot
Volunteers are needed to help isolated and homebound seniors in the aftermath of hurricane Sandy by making telephone reassurance calls, delivering emergency meals and supplies, and assisting with delivering meals to our home–delivered meal program participants. Volunteers are needed through the weekend. Please contact Judith Turner at jturner@dorotusa.org.
Jewish Federation Hurricane Relief Fund
Donors are urged to contribute to their local Federation or through the online donation form. Or, text RELIEF to 51818 on a mobile device to pledge a donation.
Donors may also send checks to the national mailbox at The Jewish Federations of North America, Wall Street Station, PO Box 148, New York, NY 10268. Please indicate “JFNA Hurricane Relief Fund” on all checks or in the designation box online.
The Shluchim Flood Relief Fund
Washington Heights
The eruv sustained a lot of damage in Washington Heights in Manhattan. Learn more about the reconstruction drive HERE.
If I missed an email, tweet or comment, please forgive me – it was an oversight. Just email me again and I will update this page.
With all my love and best wishes to all affected.
My hearts go out to all those who have been the victims of this devastation. I believe it will be a long healing road ahead, but we will perservere. Thank you for all that you do!
Love & Light,
Dorit $asson
p.s Just donated!
Thank you for sharing our plight!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-Mazel-Day-School-Sandy-Storm/188118177992243?fref=ts
Thank you for posting!