Berkeley, CA, December 16, 2014 – LIGHTING UP MY LIFE is the story of Elizabeth, a Holocaust Survivor who is thriving on financial support made possible by Jewish Federation’s Holocaust Survivor Services Fund at Jewish Family and Children’s Services of the East Bay. This heart-warming story marks day 12 of ALIGHT 100: One hundred days of giving back, an intensive awareness and fundraising campaign, running through March 15, 2015.
Following is Elizabeth W.’s story:
I am a Holocaust survivor who is nearing 80 years of age, and I live by myself. I have few people to call on for emotional or financial support. My social security income is barely enough to pay for my rent, a doctor’s co-pay and some food. When I came down with a severe case of shingles last year, I really didn’t know how I could pay for my medications and as well as the attendant I needed to help me regain my health.
Feeling so alone, I called my social worker, who, to my relief, told me about the Holocaust Survivors Services program at Jewish Family and Children’s Services. Because of the support given by the Jewish Federation to this fund, I was able to meet my basic needs and maintain my housing.
It’s so important to know that those of us who are challenged with financial hardships and have survived the Holocaust do not re-experience the trauma of our early lives. Holocaust Survivor Services is an act of compassion, and even more, it’s an example of Jewish values. It’s a sign of kindness. Knowing that people care for me and are ready to help me lights up my life and gives me strength to keep going.
During the 16 week campaign, topics of discussion will focus on many of the programs the Federation and Foundation. Funds raised during ALIGHT 100: One hundred days of giving back will support the Federation and Foundation’s continued work to build a vibrant Jewish community, support the vulnerable, and secure the Jewish future. To make a donation, visit http://www.jfed.org/alight100 or call 510.839.2900.
The Jewish Federation of the East Bay and The Jewish Community Foundation are dedicated to building and sustaining a vibrant and inclusive local Jewish community and supporting Jewish life in the East Bay, Israel, and throughout the world. The Federation and Foundation work together with East Bay Jewish donors to create a rich and supportive community guided by the Jewish values of tzedakah (righteous giving), chesed (loving kindness) and tikkun olam (repairing the world). For more information call 510.809.4953 or visit www.jfed.org
