Crisis in Argentina

BACKGROUND

* The figures are approximate. Source: WJC.

THE FACTS

• The situation nationally in Argentina is unstable. The economic condition is in disarray.
• There is only limited access to devalued savings accounts. Credit card use is restricted.
• Terrorist bombings of the Israeli embassy in 1992 and the AMIA building in 1994 left the Jewish community traumatized.
• The collapse of several banks in Argentina left the community with a debt of $26,000,000.
• Argentina’s Jewish middle class (80% of all Jews) has experienced a financial and emotional meltdown.
  

• Over 30,000 Jews are living below the poverty line.
• The three classes of Jewish poor include:
  
  • Formerly middle-class Jews have become the "new poor" over last four years.
  • Formerly wealthy and affluent Jews have become the "sudden poor" over last six months.
  • Several thousand elderly welfare cases are cared for by the local community.
• Families face eviction from homes because they are unable to pay rent.
• Electricity and gas are being turned off in homes of people who cannot pay.
• Memberships in Jewish institutions such as JCCs and Jewish day schools are at an all time low because members can no longer afford the fees.

 

JDC/FEDERATION RESPONSE

WELFARE

• JDC through Tzedaka Foundation runs 40 Social Assistance Centers.
• Food vouchers, food packages, medicine, rent subsidies and clothing are provided in Social Assistance Centers, which are run by professionals and volunteers.

PUTTING PEOPLE TO WORK

• JDC, in partnership with Tzedaka Foundation, and through coordination with AMIA and ORT, opened the Ariel Job Center, enabling members of the community to network with potential employers and be re-trained for new jobs.
• JDC has established Micro Enterprises, creating small business opportunities (e.g. Challah bakery, direct mail house, car service, etc.)
• Creation of a Computer Networking Server connecting institutions, volunteer centers, JCCs and schools so people can network.
• Small loans are made available to Jewish-owned businesses.
  

 

FINANCIAL NEEDS

The current estimate of need for 2002 is $8.76 million, based on a caseload of 26,000 persons. The caseload continues to grow and it is anticipated that the financial needs for 2003 will increase.

THE FINANCIAL NEEDS BROKEN OUT

• The $8.76 million dollars needed in 2002 will go toward:
  • Food vouchers (per family/per month)
  • Cash assistance for emergencies (rent & utilities arrears, etc.)
  • Social workers
  • Job retraining and Job Search Center
  • Loans for small business
  • Consolidation and reorganizing of the community
• JDC is working closely with UJC and the Federation system to raise the balance of the funds required.