We are all as a community saddened by the events which occurred this past weekend at the Tree Of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill.
It’s difficult to respond to this tragedy without the feeling of trying to help in some way.
One student started this project to help support this vibrant Jewish community and find a way to give back.
Gracie Silverstein from Lansdale, PA combined her love of jewelry with her passion for peace and created something beautiful. She partnered with a local Etsy shop to make necklaces that say “stronger than hate” in Hebrew. She will be donating $10 from each necklace to the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society. (HIAS) They are sterling silver and can be made in silver or gold. Each necklace will be $36. Contact info@themitzvahbowl.com to place your order.
In another instance, a woman originally from Pittsburgh wrote an emotional song in the wake of the Pittsburgh Synagogue shooting.
If you feel compelled to help, here’s what you can do:
- Help Rebuild Tree of Life: Donations can be made to assist the families of the victims and to assist with rebuilding the synagogue at any branch of First National Bank of Pennsylvania or online.
- Donate Money: A verified GoFund me page can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/tree-of-life-synagogue-shooting. Additionally, Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh has set up a donation page at https://jewishpgh.org/our-victims-of-terror-fund/.
- Support Organizations:
Several organizations on the Federation’s website are noted to help combat hate and violence.
ACLU, which works to defend and preserve the civil rights and liberties, including religious freedom and racial justice
ADL, the world leader in fighting anti-Semitism
HIAS, committed to protecting our community and others form hatred and violence, providing assistance to refugees from around the world who immigrate to the United States
Southern Poverty Law Center, monitoring hate groups and other extremists throughout the United States and expose their activities to the public, the media and law enforcement. - Show Up For Shabbat. AJC is calling on Jewish communities across the country—along with elected officials, religious and civic leaders, and other allies, both Jewish and non-Jewish—to flock to synagogues this coming Shabbat (Friday night and Saturday, November 2-3).
Please add any other organizations or fundraisers in the comments section.