Three organizations dedicated to helping those affected by the September 11 tragedy recently received grants totaling $200,000 from the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the umbrella organization that represents more than 900 synagogues in North America. The UAHC has donated more than $1.7 million in aid to charitable organizations since its Disaster Relief Fund was activated on September 13, 2001.
This week, the UAHC announced that it is providing the following grants:
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$100,000 to the Robin Hood Foundation for its support of low-income victims suffering from the economic aftermath of September 11;
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$50,000 to the New York City Mission Society for counseling and other support services for individuals adversely affected by September 11;
- $50,000 to Comfort Zone Camp, which provides traditional weekend camping experiences along with grief counseling to children who lost loved ones on September 11.
The first $200,000 raised through the UAHC was given to the September 11 Fund in October 2001. In December 2001 the UAHC announced an additional $800,000 in grants to eight charities. In February 2002 an additional $500,000. Groups that have received aid from the UAHC include the Legal Aid Society of New York, the New York City Coalition Against Hunger, the Structured Employment Economic Development Corporation, and numerous funds for the families of police officers, firefighters, and other victims.
The UAHC Disaster Relief Fund is the mechanism by which the Reform Movement raises money for the victims of natural and man-made disasters. In previous years, donations have been made to victims of floods in North Dakota and earthquakes in Central America. The fund has no overhead, so every dollar donated goes directly to charitable organizations. Donations have come in all sizes, from individuals, corporations, and Reform congregations.