Since JDC’s (Jewish Distribution Committee) establishment in 1914, they have operated with a deep understanding that their responsibility to assist the less fortunate is not limited to the Jewish community. In times of crisis, JDC’s non-sectarian operational arm fulfills a paramount function in both assisting additional communities in affected areas, as well as equipping a Jewish community to serve as an agent of “tikkun olam,”— helping strengthen their community in its time of need. To that end, JDC is working with partners in Israel and around the world, in collaboration with key local partners (e.g., hospitals) to identify clear and dire needs. JDC will transport humanitarian aid, food, and medications to relief organizations lacking these essential and life-saving supplies.

JDC was one of the first organizations to respond after the earthquake in Morocco.  With funding from Grand Circle Foundation and the Lewis family, they were able to provide immediate relief to 240 households to receive blankets, children’s clothing, and a week’s supply of diapers, hygiene products along with food and cooking utensils.

The latest project in partnership with the JDC will enable women earthquake survivors to earn a livelihood using their tradtional sewing skills.  The initiative will support local women’s cooperatives in Al Haouz province – the epicenter of the earthquake – in creating biodegradable cloth sacks for trees sold in the tree nurseries run by our local partner, the High Atlas Foundation. These biodegradable sacks are more environmentally friendly than the plastic sacks currently used. They increase the survival of nursery seedlings and prevent pollution caused by burning plastics and seepage of microplastics into groundwater.