JCA opens emergency funding to all Jewish organisations
The funds will assist organisations to deliver critical services including crisis support, trauma care, practical assistance, individual welfare and community safety
The Jewish Communal Appeal (JCA) has announced an unprecedented step to support the community following the Bondi Beach terror attack, opening emergency funding to all Jewish organisations for the first time in its history.
The JCA Board of Governors passed a special resolution to enable the provision of funding beyond JCA’s member organisations to any existing Jewish community organisations that are Australian registered DGR-1 charities and which are providing frontline support to the local community.
The decision recognises the unimaginable circumstances, trauma and uncertainty confronting the community and the urgent need to ensure that all critical services are adequately resourced.
The funds will assist organisations to deliver critical services including crisis support, trauma care, practical assistance, individual welfare and community safety in the aftermath of the attack.
JCA president Ian Sandler said the community needed to respond with action, courage and compassion.
“What occurred at Bondi Beach has shaken our community to its core. In moments like these, we must respond not only with words of comfort, but with action, courage and compassion,” Sandler said.
“JCA exists to care for our community, and in this moment of immense pain, we are extending that care as widely as needed. We will stand alongside every family, every victim, and every organisation on the frontlines – united in our determination to support one another and to bring light, dignity and hope, even in the darkest of times.”
JCA, in partnership with the Dor Foundation and Australian Jewish Funders, have launched the Community Relief Appeal. The initial purpose of the fund will be to provide immediate and ongoing support to victims, families and the broader community impacted by the attack, but this is expected to expand over time as needs evolve.
JCA Governors have also approved an initial drawdown of up to $2.5 million from JCA’s Bequest Fund to ensure resources are available where they are needed most.
Guidelines on how eligible organisations can apply for emergency funding will be released soon directly to the leadership of organisations.
JCA wished to assure the Sydney Jewish community that they are not alone, and that support, care and leadership are being mobilised in response to the act of terror.
Donations to the Community Relief Appeal can be made at donate.thedorfoundation.org.au/bondi-beach-terror-attack-response/donate.
The Bondi Beach terror attack on December 14 killed 15 people during a Chanukah celebration.
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