Story

We need your help. When you’re young, certain things matter a great deal: how you look, who you’re friends are… that sort of thing.  But for some children there are bigger things to worry about such as illness in the family, bereavement and genuine poverty. So when it comes to doing things that others take for granted, like going on Israel Tour or Summer Camp, very often these children get left behind, even though they are the ones whose need is greatest. The events that Tribe organises for our youth have a huge impact on our children and we believe that Israel Tour will prove to have an even greater impact. They provide a unique opportunity for young Jews to socialize and embrace their Jewish identity. It’s no exaggeration to say that much of their Jewish life is shaped by such an experience. We believe that no Jewish child should miss out on the opportunity to forge a lifelong Jewish connection. But for some children there is no-one there for them who can afford the cost. It’s not a choice about their holiday plans; they have no holiday plans. These are families more concerned with being able to afford to feed their children than about providing a holiday which their children so desperately need. The US Chesed Bursary Fund enables these young people to take part in activities like Tribe Israel Tour, Tribe Summer Camp and Tribe Summer Schemes by providing vital financial assistance. The grants application process is strictly confidential and rigorous to ensure that only genuine needs are met. You may think that these cases are rare and extreme but unfortunately from the bursary applications already received we know that sadly there are all too many people in this situation. The following comment from a member of the Bursary Fund committee says it all: “Sometimes we forget that within the Jewish community there is real hardship. Being part of the Bursary Fund committee has made it absolutely clear that there are heartbreaking situations within our community with people suffering genuine tragedy in their lives. We cannot ignore these families and pretend they don’t exist. These children want to remain connected and it’s the duty of those of us who have the money to make sure these help. Please contribute if you can.” Please help transform lives Gaby Morris US Chesed Bursary Fund Chair