The Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix distributed $50,000 to four Valley organizations in direct response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic with specific focus to provide a safety net for vulnerable populations with critical needs.
“The Phoenix area is facing an unprecedented challenge during the Coronavirus pandemic. Through the Federation Emergency Fund, we are able to immediately infuse critical support to agencies that provide for vulnerable Jews in need locally,” said Barry Markson, chair of the Grants Committee.
The programs that received funds are:
JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE AND JEWISH FREE LOAN – $40,000 FOR COLLABORATIVE REQUEST
JFCS and JFL distribute funds on an emergency basis and serve the Greater Phoenix Jewish community. Both organizations have a long history working together. JFCS’ Helping Hands program and JFL’s Economic Crisis Response Program work in partnership serving Jewish individuals and families experiencing extreme financial hardship including, but not limited to expenses related to housing, food, utilities, transportation, insurance, and medical costs. JFCS and JFL work together as a team to help these individuals.
EAST VALLEY JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER – $5,000
EVJCC will be able to help their most vulnerable community members through delivering groceries and/or prescription medications to homebound seniors when online delivery services are often backed up by several days, are costly, and when many seniors do not have access to a computer or are unable to learn how to shop online for groceries. EVJCC will also provide small relief grants for families that are identified as in significant need to cover immediate urgent needs such as groceries and utility expenses.
MARTIN PEAR JCC IN THE VALLEY OF THE SUN – $5,000
MPJCC will use the grant for their Emergency Fund, which provides financial aid to current Early Childhood Center scholarship families in need. A number of families have lost their jobs, have had to close their small businesses or have been unable to work because they are not able to pay for childcare during this pandemic.
“Through our COVID-19 Emergency Fund grants, we’re deliberate in being able to impact those with the most urgent needs,” said Robin Loeb, COO of the Federation. “We will continue to strive to offer our support to ensure our Jewish community perseveres in the face of this current adversity.”
These unique Federation allocations were reviewed and recommended by the Special Emergency Fund Grants Committee and approved by the board of directors.
