The Jewish communities of North Africa and Asia have ancient and rich histories, but these once-large Jewish populations are slowly but steadily diminishing in size.
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Throughout these areas, Jews generally live as small minorities in Moslem or Hindu cultures. Faced with varying degrees of political and economic constraints, they continue to maintain as viable a Jewish communal life as possible.
Since World War II, JDC has been helping these communities develop safety nets for the homeless, the elderly and the needy. In recent years, those in need have come to represent an increasing proportion of these populations. We also support programs that provide educational, religious and recreational services and promote Jewish communal life. In Turkey, JDC’s primary aim has been to provide technical assistance to Jewish communal institutions. And particularly in communities where there are still sizable numbers of young Jews, cultural activities aimed at strengthening Jewish identity have been emphasized.
JDC also maintains a program in Ethiopia that provides essential medical support for over 13,000 Felas Mora.
Over the past decades, JDC has helped rescue entire Jewish communities in these regions, and it continues to monitor the safety and well-being of all who reside in volatile areas. Because of JDC’s presence, the Jewish communities of Africa and Asia know that other Jewish communities care, are vigilant and stand ready to assist as circumstances require.
2006
