The fight against breast cancer is arduous, both physically and mentally. For many, there are also economic concerns, family responsibilities and more. While undergoing her own treatment, Shari Mendes witnessed many other patients who were obviously struggling with these additional challenges. To help them she began the Israel Lemonade Fund which offers one-time grants for (mostly) housing expenses to those who meet certain specific criteria.
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Inheritance Theater Project
There are many ways to help bring people together, to share their stories, to learn from their differences and to create communities of harmony. In cities around the country (and beyond), Inheritance Theater Project creates plays based on the community’s history, its residents and its inherited wisdom, in an effort to bridge divides and create a cohesive society. Co-founded by Jon Adam Ross, Inheritance Theater Project utilizes playmaking/theater to join together intersectional, inter-generational, and interfaith communities–things sorely needed in our divided world.
Israeli Transgender Association
Guided by her own difficult journey, Linor Abergel, a trans woman, found her way out of prostitution to establish a Tel Aviv community center that offers other women in similar circumstances a safe space, nourishing food, clothing, cultural activities and educational opportunities. Linor has also become an advisor to Knesset members on issues important to her community.
Our grant provides funds for individuals who find themselves in need of emergency support.
JLM Food Rescuers
40% of edible food, around 2.5 million tons in Israel alone, is discarded unnecessarily along every step of the food supply chain. At the same time, food insecurity, or the ability for people to provide sufficient healthy food for themselves or their family, continues to be a problem. Daniella Seltzer and Itay Peled have come together to start the JLM Food Rescuers in the Givat Shaul produce market in Jerusalem. This creative social business builds community in the city, while at the same time rescues tons of beautiful produce which is redistributed to hungry people, and also used for delicious recipes for the program’s catering business.
Our matching funds are directed to expenses incurred at the produce market where the program operates.
Heart 2 Hart Detroit
Every sandwich Larry Oleinick and his volunteers offer homeless and destitute people who call the area around Detroit’s Hart Plaza “home” comes with caring and friendly conversation. While the sandwich is important, “The greatest gift we offer those we assist is reassurance that they are not alone. With the 3 C’s—Conversation, Compassion and Consistency – we build relationships.” Many lives have been transformed by a connection that comes from the heart. Our funds are directed to administrative expenses and the purchase of basic necessities.
jGirls+ Magazine
At jGirls+ Magazine, young Jewish girls are saying a lot lately. From travel to art, from racism to sexuality to Jewish identity, they are sharing perspectives and experiences through stories, poetry, music, images and other forms of expression – and giving voice to an emerging generation of Jewish women and leaders.
Elizabeth Mandel started JGirls+ in 2016. Having worked in social justice efforts and media, and knowing how to create dialogue about disenfranchised populations and challenging issues, she set out to make a safe and curated space where Jewish girls could express themselves, gain confidence and build community. “It’s critical that girls trust their voices and trust that they will be heard,” she said. “With jGirls+, we are telling them that they matter and others believe them.”
Our grant helps jGirls+ Magazine expand its readership.
