Though the Jews of Azerbaijan had retained a significantly higher level of Jewish identity than those in other parts of the former Soviet Union (FSU), they desperately needed help when JDC first began its operations in Azerbaijan in 1992.

After years of Soviet rule, when Jewish institutions were banned, Azeri Jews needed training and guidance to rebuild Jewish communal programs. With the country at war and the economy in ruins, they also needed financial aid.

JDC immediately reached out to both Ashkenazi Jews and Mountain Jews and began recruiting and training community leaders, professionals and volunteers.

As economic conditions worsened, the plight of Jewish elderly became critical. Their pensions, which averaged $15 a month, no longer covered the cost of food, clothing, medicine and housing.

Working with local leaders and volunteers, we helped the community build a welfare program to provide care for its needy elderly.

Today, Jewish communal life is an active force in Baku, Kuba, Sumgait, Gyandzha, Oguz and Privolnia. With continued support, the Jewish communities of Azerbaijan will one day be fully independent and self-sufficient communities.

2005