Jewish Communities in Argentina Gather for Communal Seders

This year during the 8 days of Passover, Jews throughout Argentina will gather for 60 sederim. About 15,000 people are expected to attend the celebrations as the economic situation continues to alter their lives.

The Jews of Argentina were a rich and vibrant community, full of light and laughter. Although still vibrant and close-knit, some of that laughter has faded as the country's economic crisis plunged many into poverty. JDC responded to this new need by establishing Social Assistance Centers where members of the Jewish community can go for food assistance (debit cards to be used in the supermarkets), medicines in the Central Pharmacy, and social work services (legal help, counseling, etc.). JDC also helped establish the Ariel Job Center, where people can search databases for employment listings, apply for small business loans and attend workshops on resume writing and interviewing skills.

The JDC-sponsored "Biachad" holiday celebrations: Rosh Hashanah Biachad, Hannukah Biachad and Pesach Biachad, provide a means for holiday observance at minimal cost. Communities gather in a central location to celebrate, as no one should be denied that opportunity for lack of funds.