Sending Help To Haiti

Moved to action by the devastating events in Haiti this week, the MJCC is proud to support the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland's efforts to raise money to support the people of Haiti.

In addition, the students of our campus partner, Portland Jewish Academy, are also motivated to do what they can in support of Haitian children in need and have prepared their effort to collect needed items and funds to assist the children. 

Helping Hands for Haitian Honeys

Since the Haitian earthquake, PJA students have put their hearts and hands to excellent use!  With the support and guidance of 2nd grade teacher, Beth Cook, and 6th grade Humanities teacher and SAC advisor, Barbara Steinberg, students have designed and organized a drive.  We all believe that children helping children is meaningful, which is why we have “adopted” an orphanage in Port-au-Prince.

How Can You Help?

• The orphanage needs baby wipes, Infant/Children’s Tylenol, and bars of soap (there are other items they have requested as well, and if you would like a complete list, please contact Beth Cook or Barbara Steinberg).
• Help us build a pyramid!  Items will be stacked in the PJA lobby
• Got spare change?  Deposit your monetary contributions into one of the jars placed in classrooms throughout PJA or in the MJCC lobby.  The money will be counted and tracked by the PJA 2nd graders. 
• Want to help with community involvement?  Email Barbara Steinberg and/or Beth Cook. 

Mesi! (“thank you” in Creole)

Please see this note below from the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland:

Haiti Earthquake Relief

The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland will remit all funds raised (withholding no administrative overhead) to our overseas partner, The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Thank you for supporting this important effort during this incredible time of need.

JDC's Disaster Response Work

Inspired by the spirit of tikkun olam, the Jewish moral responsibility to improve the human condition for all global citizens, JDC provides non-sectarian disaster relief and long-term development assistance worldwide. JDC’s approach to disaster relief is twofold: Immediate action is taken to provide an emergency response to the most vulnerable victims of man-made or natural disasters, such as earthquakes, famine, or war.

Once JDC opens a mailbox to accept donations and the most urgent needs have been met, JDC assesses the situation on the ground and partners with one or more local organizations to develop and implement innovative programs to help restore vitality and produce sustainable results for the affected communities in the long term.

Haiti Earthquake Disaster Response

JDC is currently accepting donations to support its relief efforts following the catastrophic earthquake that struck Haiti yesterday evening, the worst in over 200 years. Now, and in the months to come, JDC will provide both immediate relief—as well as long-term assistance to help the Haitian people rebuild their lives. JDC is conducting a full and rapid assessment of the situation on the ground, while reaching out to its network of partners to determine critical next steps based on immediate needs. These efforts are part of JDC’s International Development Program (IDP), which provides immediate relief and long-term assistance to victims of natural and manmade disasters. JDC, as Chair of the Jewish Coalition for Disaster Relief, is coordinating the Haiti related efforts of its 45 member organizations.