As we approach the end of the calendar year, there seems to be a proverbial light at the end of this long and dark tunnel. Vaccines have been approved and distribution is beginning. The potential for a new government stimulus package to help individuals/families and several of our Jewish organizations is on the horizon and can’t come soon enough!

Despite the optimistic news, challenges remain. Today, as challenges facing Jews in need are growing at an alarming rate, we need miracles more than ever. An estimated 9,000 Jews live at or below the poverty line here in San Diego. We believe that as many as 20% of Jewish households struggle to make ends meet on a monthly basis — and that was before the pandemic. Our fellow community members will continue to struggle unless we find the resources to fill the gap and support the unmet needs.

This fall, we established the Human Services Relief Matching Fund — a campaign to raise $54 million nationally — with $480,000 of direct support for San Diego. Every new or increased dollar above your annual campaign gift, from now until December 31, 2020, will be matched by 50%. Your generosity, leveraged by this matching fund, helps our Federation transform, inspire, and even save lives.

Take a look at your impact in action. Lives can be changed because of you.

The need for your support grows more urgent every day. With your gift, you become a light that leads the newly unemployed out of their darkest hour through employment services and job training, rekindles hope through interactive virtual connections for those suffering from depression and isolation, and radiates opportunity through financial services for our treasured institutions and businesses.

Thank you for your compassion and generosity. 2021 can’t come soon enough!