Last week, Turkey and Syria were struck with a deadly earthquake, with a death toll above 11,000 and still rising. The Jewish community in Turkey has been hit hard; the president of the Antakya community, Saul Cenudioglu, and his wife, Fortuna, both perished, and the town’s synagogue was partially destroyed.
Federation’s core partners, the American Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), have had professionals on the ground since the earthquake hit. They have been supporting the Jewish community there and are also providing broader humanitarian assistance. Federation is also in close contact with the Israeli government and other organizations that are assisting in relief efforts.
Jewish Federations of North America has started a fund so that those who wish to provide emergency support may do so quickly and directly. Federation’s established committees for international emergency response will ensure that any funds received are directed immediately to the greatest needs.
This tragedy is a reminder of the importance of Federation’s global humanitarian network, which is supported through our annual campaign. The donations made to Federation’s Partners Fund ensure that we can spring into action the moment a crisis strikes.
