Jewish Federation of the Berkshires Announces $50,000 Allocation to Support Critical Trauma and Relief Needs in Israel

PITTSFIELD, MA –Jewish Federation of the Berkshires today announced that its executive board of directors has allocated $50,000 to support emergency needs in Israel during this time of crisis. The allocation will be drawn from Federation’s reserve fund and will be distributed to address critical needs as identified by Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and its partners.

The allocation comes in light of a historic $500 million emergency campaign launched by JFNA to support critical needs in response to the savage attack by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and the ongoing military conflict.  

“The needs are extraordinary, especially to provide trauma support, emergency medical services, and immediate relief to victims and their families whose lives have been shattered by these horrific attacks,” said Federation president Judy Usow. “We are grateful to be able to provide this immediate and direct support.”

The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires is accepting donations from the broader community and has already raised over $101,000 within the Berkshire community. “Jewish Federations of North America has boots on the ground coordinating with its long-time partners in Israel to assess the needs and provide oversight to ensure every dollar is used effectively to support those most impacted,” said Federation Executive Director Dara Kaufman.

Donations can be made via Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ home page: jewishberkshires.org.

JFNA recently distributed the first $10 million in aid to 20 organizations providing emergency relief and support in Israel, including the Jewish Agency for Israel, JDC, World ORT, Israel Trauma Coalition, United Hatzalah, Magen David Adom, ZAKA, Barzilai Medical Center, and the Soroka Medical Center.

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