Relief Efforts for the Philippines Continue

We have all been shocked by the utter devastation wrought by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. In partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), and IsraAID, our Federation has established a relief fund for direct support in the city of Tacloban and other areas that have been hardest hit. Thousands have died and millions have been affected in what is one of the fiercest storms ever recorded.

We have seen an outpouring of support from this community, which stands in solidarity with our Filipino brothers and sisters, and as of today we have already raised $45,584 in relief funds. These fundraising efforts continue. One of our partners on the ground in the Philippines is IsraAID, an Israeli-based humanitarian aid agency. Their team, stationed in Ipil, a village in Ormoc City, is providing medical treatment to victims and distributing much-needed supplies, as well as addressing the needs of psycho-social/trauma care and setting up protection centers for women and children. Shachar Zahavi, Founding Director of IsraAID, has sent us the following update:

IsraAID established a new field outreach clinic in partnership with UNICEF, The US Navy, the Shai Fund and local government officials among them Ipil's mayor. Our team is also coordinating its efforts with Israeli Government Officials and the IDF field hospital.

Currently 15 Israeli, 2 German and 7 Philippines medical professionals are working together to treat those in need of medical attention. We will also be doing out reach missions to expand our range of assistance. Today the team treated over 200 people.

IsraAID is also distributing humanitarian goods among other food, water, and hygiene kits to the families who have lost most of their belongings.

Locally, Congregation Sha’ar Zahav in San Francisco will be hosting "Chicken Soup for the Philippines" this Thursday, November 21, to raise money for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. For a $36 suggested donation, you can enjoy chicken soup and vegan dishes with your community. All funds raised will contribute to the Federation’s relief fund. Click here for more information, and to RSVP. Our Federation's efforts are amplified by those from Jewish Federations across the country to provide immediate and direct humanitarian relief. One hundred percent of all funds collected will go directly to our partners on the ground in the Philippines, including JDC and IsraAID, for emergency response and long-term recovery. Click here to donate now.