As Jews, we have a fundamental responsibility to be engaged in the world and help those in need.
Afghan Refugees in our Area 
The Ohr Kodesh community is stepping up again to assist with the resettlement of a refugee family from Afghanistan - the Toorman Family. We must raise $20,000 to assure this initiative will be successful.
Money raised will go into a designated fund managed by Ohr Kodesh, and will directly support rent, utilities, transportation, medical expenses, and other general living costs required to establish the family in the community. Your assistance will help fill the gap for at least a year until the family can be more self-sufficient and independent.
As of March 13, we are delighted to announce that the family is moving to our neighborhood near Temple Shalom. Both of the Toorman sons have started school at Bethesda Elementary and will transfer to Rock Creek Forest Elementary in the Fall.
Be part of the effort! You can make a contribution HERE. Thank you in advance for your support. Questions? Contact Trudy Jacobson.
Please email Aron Krasnopoler or Simma Kupchan if you are interested in participating in community-based efforts to assist refugee families.
If you would like to help Afghan refugees in our area right now, the following organizations are taking the lead on resettling refugees in our region.
Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSS NCA)
At this link, Take Action, you may donate money directly to assist with critical needs of refugees arriving now, including housing, groceries, and transportation.
Sign up to volunteer to assist with driving, purchasing groceries, providing pro bono legal or medical aid, tutoring children, or donating furniture and other needed items, HERE. Housing is in very short supply; if you own an apartment or Airbnb that could accommodate a refugee family, please note that on the volunteer form.
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
To donate money to help Afghans in need in our area and elsewhere in the world, click HERE. Sign up for a number of volunteer opportunities, including assisting in scheduling interpreter sessions and mentoring families, HERE.
HIAS
While HIAS does not resettle refugees in the Washington, DC region, they are resettling refugee families in other parts of the country and are also engaged in advocacy to expand humanitarian evacuations for Afghans in danger. You can support their efforts HERE.
Ukraine Relief Funds
Support Masorti Jews in Ukraine
Federation of Greater Washington's Ukraine Emergency Fund Hias in Ukraine JDC-Responds Emergency in Ukraine
Help Victims of the Earthquake in Haiti
American Jewish World Service The American Jewish World Service is collecting emergency aid to communities devastated by the earthquake in Haiti, as well as providing assistance to address the root causes of poverty and violence in that country. To support their efforts, click HERE.
