Jewish groups begin Sandy relief efforts

Union of Reform Judaism, Jewish Federations of North America establish aid funds

By ToI Staff 31 October 2012, 3:06 am

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A 168-foot water tanker, the John B. Caddell, sits on the shore Tuesday morning, Oct. 30, 2012 where it ran aground on Front Street in the Stapleton neighborhood of New York's Staten Island as a result of superstorm Sandy. (photo credit: Sean Sweeney/AP)

While communities along the northeastern United States began to assess the damage from Sandy, the “superstorm” that battered the coastline Monday night and Tuesday morning, Jewish organizations started the work of helping those in need.

The Union for Reform Judaism and JFNA, the Jewish Federation of North America, both established funds on Tuesday to help communities impacted by the hurricane.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those adversely impacted by Hurricane Sandy,” said URJ president Rabbi Rick Jacobs. “The magnitude of damage is difficult to comprehend, as is the work that will be necessary to even begin restoration. But we know our nation, and our community, will rise to the challenge.”

The JFNA announced the opening a Hurricane Relief Fund to contribute to recovery and rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Sandy in a statement saying, “Seeing the response of communities across the region to the devastating storm, we are awed by the strength of the American people. The Jewish community and the Federation Movement send our support and prayers to those affected by the hurricane, and we will stand beside them during the recovery and rebuilding.”