JDC Press Release
August 5, 2005
 The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee
From Steven Schwager, Executive Vice President


212.885.0818 • claire.schultz@jdcny.org

**For Immediate Release**

AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE AIDS ROMANIAN FLOOD VICTIMS

Partners with Romanian Jewish federation; Purchases water; Donates four truckloads of clothing






New York----The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) today announced that it has taken steps through its non-sectarian International Development Project (IDP) to assist flood victims in Romania.

At lease 24 people have died as a result of flooding caused by torrential rains throughout Romania during the month of July. The floods destroyed thousands of homes, wiped out utilities throughout the eastern part of the country and caused millions of dollars worth of property damage.

Contaminated water, caused by overflowing sewage and floating animal corpses, remains a major concern. To address this concern, JDC has purchase nearly 10,000 two-liter bottles of fresh water, which has been transported to the flood zone in conjunction with the Jewish Federation of Romania (FEDROM) and the International Red Cross.

Additionally, JDC has partnered with FEDROM and World Jewish Relief (WJR) to donate four large truckloads of clothing---23,500 items---to Romania's Social and Medical Assistance Department. Romanian army trucks and helicopters have delivered the clothing to the flood zone.

"With the help of JDC and WJR, FEDROM feels proud of what is being done in the name of the Jewish community for the victims," said Zvi Feine, JDC's country director for Romania.







The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) serves as the overseas arm of the organized North American Jewish community providing relief for Jews in need, promoting Jewish renewal, rebuilding Jewish communities, and helping Israel address its most urgent social challenges.

The JDC receives its funds primarily from American Jewry through the Jewish Federations of the United States and the United Jewish Communities. JDC also receives funding from World Jewish Relief of Great Britain and UIA Federations Canada.

Through "Open Maibox" campaigns, JDC's non-sectarian International Development Program (IDP)provides Jews with a way to respond to disasters and furnish develpment assistance worldwide.