The Jewish Federations of North America are mobilizing to help the victims of unprecedented flooding across Colorado, which has swept through 15 counties, killing at least five and displacing thousands of people – and the Jewish community has not escaped the disaster.
Jewish Federation of St. Louis has opened an online donation fund, and JFNA has provided $50,000 in emergency aid. So far more than 1,500 people are missing in the flooding, which has wiped out roads and bridges and destroyed or damaged thousands of homes, businesses and institutions. Rain continues to fall, swelling flooded rivers and hampering response efforts.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of Colorado,” said JFNA Board of Trustees Chair Michael Siegal. “Jewish Federations across North America are working closely with the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado and will do whatever we can to help those in the Jewish and general communities who are suffering.”
In Boulder, several feet of floodwater swept into both the Har Hashem Reform synagogue and Bonai Shalom Conservative congregation, damaging both buildings, while the Chabad Lubavitch of Boulder County was also badly hit. Many community members are reporting flooded homes as well.
The Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado is taking the lead in assessing needs on the ground and distributing funds and supplies throughout the community. JFNA and its Emergency Committee have been coordinating with the local Federation and Executive Director Doug Seserman, including working with NECHAMA- Jewish Response to Disaster, assessing damages and starting recovery operations. The emergency committee today allocated the initial $50,000 for emergency aid to the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado.
One hundred percent of donations to the Colorado Relief Fund will go to the Allied Jewish Federation’s relief effort. To donate online, click here. Your donation is sincerely appreciated.
