Jewish groups are joining the effort to help those displaced by the tornado in suburban Oklahoma City.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, announced May 22 that his organization will collect donations and distribute them to the American Red Cross and others on the ground in Oklahoma.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those impacted by this horrific tragedy,” Jacobs said. “As other needs arise, perhaps including volunteers to assist with the clean-up and rebuilding, we stand ready to help in any way possible.”
The Jewish Federations of North America also has started a fund to aid the relief effort of the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City, and B’nai B’rith International has opened its Flood, Tornado and Hurricane Disaster Relief Fund.
Meanwhile, the Chabad Community Center of Southern Oklahoma opened its building as a shelter and is collecting supplies for those displaced by the tornado that hit Moore, Okla.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent a letter of condolence to President Barack Obama, writing, “On behalf of the government and people of Israel, I offer our heartfelt condolences to you and to the people of the United States on the massive tornado that struck in Oklahoma and exacted such a horrific toll in human life.” — jta