Israel Relief (IR):
The purpose of this fund is to develop long-term empowerment programs as well as provide immediate relief for individuals and communities struggling to survive and with nowhere else to turn.
Through the Israel Relief fund we at Jerusalem Cornerstone Foundation search out those in need who have fallen through the cracks. With our experience and understanding of the local social systems and aid organizations, we are able to meet the needs of many marginalized and ignored people.
Through the Israel Relief fund we strive to step in and fill this gap in the hope of preventing the most destitute from being completely neglected. These often include those lacking clear status within their respective communities: South Lebanese Christian families and refugees (former South Lebanese Army), post-orphanage orphans in Bethlehem, Israeli and Arab prisoners, Messianic Jewish Ethiopian immigrants to Israel, single mothers, the elderly (including Holocaust survivors), and disadvantaged minority families.
It is our hope that in building relationships with such as these we are able to help alleviate at least part of the suffering of so many living in our midst, thus reflecting the infinite love of Jesus.
LOVE AND CHARITY BEYOND BOUNDARIES AND BARRIERS
In addition to our work in Israel we have a network of representatives who bring very needy cases to our attention from many parts of the Palestinian territories in the West Bank and Gaza. We have been able to assist many who have no social workers or organized health care systems to turn to. The tension in the region has resulted in the construction of physical walls and barriers dividing the countryside and separating families and communities but we are committed to demonstrating love and charity for any needy person or group ensnared in the grips of the ongoing political crises.
SOME OF THE MINISTRIES SUPPORTED BY THIS FUND
Sudanese Refugees – Our brothers and sisters who have fled Southern Sudan because of the 20 year civil-war are in a precarious position in Israel right now. Over two thousand made the exodus from Egypt through the Sinai on foot, escaping the persecutions they encountered in their first country of asylum. Now they are at risk of being sent back to Egypt. JCF, along with other Christian organizations, is dedicated to helping these refugees find stability and a home of their own. While we continue to advocate on their behalf before the Israeli government, there is a great need for all the necessities of life from blankets and clothes to food, shelter, and medical treatment. Many of the refugees are working in minimum wage positions but do not have the capital to start life again for the third time.
Ethiopian Community – As a whole, the community of Jewish Ethiopian immigrants in Israel still struggles for social acceptance as well as prosperity. Sadly, internal persecution against believers within this immigrant community is some of the fiercest in the land. And thus, Messianic Jewish Ethiopians find themselves in a doubly disadvantaged situation. JCF has developed a friendship with several of the respected leaders in the believing Ethiopian community who have gratefully agreed to connect us to families in critical need.
Blind Club – The Tiberias Blind Club sought for many years to get its social programs for the blind residents of its region off the ground. But they often suffered from a lack of funding. JCF has been able to support the initiative of the volunteers over this past year and has plans to continue that support in 2008. They have created a wonderful program to encourage the blind in their community by helping them to spend productive and creative time with each other out of their homes. This relieves the isolation and depression of so many who have such limited mobility.
Amcha – For the last year Amcha has connected JCF with two Holocaust survivors living in desperate circumstances. They live below the poverty line without adequate support from the government and their health in decline. They either do not have family who can help them, or their only family is mentally handicapped and unable to provide for their needs. As believers we feel especially called to care for these ones who have suffered so much loss at the hands of those who professed a connection to Christianity. During this next year we hope to continue assisting this desperately vulnerable part of the Israeli population, and by our actions witnessing to the true love that comes from our God.