COLUMBUS, Ohio (November 20, 2014)—The Columbus Foundation announced a $50,000 grant to the Jewish Federation of Columbus to help support basic needs for local individuals who suffered under Nazi persecution. The grant, made possible thanks to the John G. and Margaret J. Richards Fund, was approved by the Foundation’s Governing Committee in October.
Columbus is home to 230 Holocaust survivors, with an average age of 87. A study earlier this year by Jewish Family Services reported many local survivors require significant financial support to live their remaining years with dignity. Many are at-risk financially and their situation is worsening due to federal and state budget cuts.
In August, the Jewish Federation of Columbus launched a five-year effort to support these survivors and assist with basic needs, including utility assistance, food relief, in-home care, and burial needs.
On August 27, the Wexner Family announced a challenge grant offering a dollar for dollar match up to $1,500,000. Contributions have also been received from the Columbus Jewish Foundation and individuals in the community.
“We were alarmed to hear the results of Jewish Family Services’ research on the needs of our community’s Holocaust survivors,” said Douglas F. Kridler, president and CEO of The Columbus Foundation. “All seniors deserve to live the remaining years of their life with dignity. These survivors deserve a community response that is designed to help them receive assistance, and we are proud to join with other committed individuals and organizations to ensure that happens.”
To learn more about the effort and give, visit http://jewishcolumbus.org/hsi.
About The Jewish Federation of Columbus
The Jewish Federation of Columbus exists to strengthen and enrich the central Ohio Jewish community. The Federation’s mission is to Connect the Jewish Community, Advocate for Jewish Causes and Ensure the Jewish Future locally, in Israel and throughout the Jewish world. For more information please visitwww.jewishcolumbus.org.
About The Columbus Foundation
The Columbus Foundation is the trusted philanthropic advisor® to more than 2,000 individuals, families, businesses, and communities that have created unique funds to make a difference in the lives of others through the most effective philanthropy possible. Serving the region for 70 years, The Columbus Foundation is the seventh largest community foundation in the United States. The Foundation’s online giving marketplace, PowerPhilanthropy®, makes it possible for everyone to access valuable information about nonprofit organizations in central Ohio.