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The Blue Card Is Providing Life-Saving Support for Holocaust Survivors Impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton
Charlotte Jewish News, December, 2024
As extreme weather continues to impact regions across the country, the non-for-profit The Blue Card has been actively reaching out to Holocaust survivors to ensure their safety.
The devastation from Hurricanes Helene and Milton has created urgent needs for survivors, particularly in Asheville, Tampa Bay, and southern Georgia, where there is a critical demand for food, medical supplies, transportation, and caregiver support. The majority of the nation’s Holocaust survivors live alone and fall well below the federal poverty line, and these hurricanes have worsened their already difficult conditions, leaving them desperate for essential resources.
The Blue Card’s Natural Disasters and Severe Weather Fund is providing life-saving support, including emergency transportation and vital medical care, to those affected by these disasters. In addition to these efforts, The Blue Card is working with local volunteers and synagogues to mobilize additional support for survivors in need. However, many more survivors remain in urgent need of similar assistance. Contributions to this fund are critical to ensuring Holocaust survivors receive the help they need during these challenging times.
As a national organization, The Blue Card is uniquely positioned to provide immediate assistance. Survivors like Sarah, who lives in Tampa Bay, Florida, had her only means of transportation as well as her furniture and kitchen appliances severely damaged by excessive flooding. With the support of The Blue Card, she is being relocated to a safe place to live while the organization replaces her damaged belongings and makes her home liveable again. In North Carolina, Eda, who lives in Black Mountain with no family nearby, faced the hardship of losing power for two weeks. The Blue Card ensured she received emergency aid to replenish her groceries and household supplies, providing her with the critical essentials she needed.
Masha Pearl, executive director, notes, “The Blue Card is asking the public to let the organization know of any Holocaust survivors impacted by these hurricanes who may need assistance, so the organization can provide the support they require during these difficult times. As we respond to the growing impacts of these disasters, your support is needed more than ever.”
Established in the U.S. in 1939, The Blue Card’s sole mission is to help Holocaust survivors in need nationwide by providing direct financial assistance and medical assistance, as well as the tools for mental and emotional well-being. Ranging in age from 79 to 105, the majority of the nation’s Holocaust survivors live alone and fall well below the federal poverty line. The Blue Card ensures survivors can live out their remaining years with dignity and respect and live at home.
For more information, visit bluecard.org.
