Minneapolis Jewish Federation Grants $1 Million To Jewish Summer Camp Recovery
MINNETONKA, Minn., May 19, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Minneapolis Jewish Federation announced this week that it would dedicate $1 million to its COVID-19 Summer Camp Fund. The fund, which is open to area summer camps that serve Minneapolis campers, will provide immediate assistance to camps that close their summer programming and face significant cash-flow needs.
MJF's COVID-19 Emergency Relief Committee began planning the Summer Camp Fund in mid-April in anticipation of area camps needing to make the difficult decision to close. The $1 million set aside for camps is in addition to the $2.36 million MJF initially made available for locally and globally.
"Camping plays an undeniably crucial role in Jewish life," says James A. Cohen, Minneapolis Jewish Federation CEO. "Minneapolis Jewish Federation's strategic plan highlights our commitment to making sure every child can have this life-affirming experience. There was no question we would do everything in our power to help our local camps."
Camps were notified of the new fund last week and invited to apply for funding.
"The Jewish summer camp experience of even just one year impacts the Jewish trajectory of a camper for their entire life," says Herzl Camp Executive Director Gary Kibort. "The loss of that opportunity is devastating. We appreciate the Minneapolis Jewish Federation recognizing the importance of Jewish summer camp."
Minneapolis Jewish Federation began its COVID-19 response in March. Learn more about MJF's response to COVID-19 in the community.
For 90 years, Minneapolis Jewish Federation has been building and sustaining Jewish community here in Minneapolis and around the globe. Through empowering, engaging, and inspiring the community, MJF promotes a culture of Jewish philanthropy, leverages resources to meet Jewish needs, and facilitates community planning to ensure a thriving and secure future. Learn more at jewishminneapolis.org.
SOURCE Minneapolis Jewish Federation
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