Support for victims of anti-Semitic crimes
Hello Neighbors, Many folks have continued to reach out to the HPCC asking how they can provide additional support for our neighbors whose home and car were vandalized by acts of anti-Semitism on November 29. The individuals want to remain anonymous and do not have any need of physical or financial things right now, but they are very grateful for the offers. What they need, however, is the ability to feel safe in their home again. Unfortunately, that cannot be purchased, and it takes time. That said, there are things we can do. Here are two suggestions, provided by one of their friend's and neighbor's - 1. If people would like to offer a note of support and neighborly love for our neighbor, they can write a card/letter. The HPCC will collect cards for the next few weeks and deliver them on behalf of the writers. It is really hard to overestimate how much these concrete demonstrations of support can mean for a person. It's tremendously moving to be presented with a stack of reminders that one is cared for and remembered. This could help tip the scales toward the side of "we are safe, we have your back", especially when they are wondering if they have to move. Cards and letters can be dropped off at 1315 N. Sheridan Ave.; there will be a marked container on the porch. 2. Make a donation to one of two Jewish-sponsored help organizations. Congregation Dor Hadash was targeted for the mass shooting at Tree of Life because of their support of HIAS, a Jewish immigrant aid society. A donation to HIAS is a way to provide concrete support for others who feel unsafe and have had their home threatened with violence. Additionally, JFCS is locally the number one supporter of newly arrived immigrants and refugees in the region. They do extraordinary good for the vulnerable. A donation to either organization in honor of our neighbors would be a meaningful way to pay our care forward and contribute to a world in which all can feel safe in their homes. Having this type of crime right here in our neighborhood is shocking and upsetting to say the least. However, it has been comforting to see the community respond with compassion and a desire to support those who have been victimized. This outpouring of concern reinforces for me that despite the ugliness of this crime, we do live in a great community. -- Click here to visit our website <https://hpccpgh.org/>
thank you for this update and for holding jewish neighbors in community, hpcc, and fellow HPers. i wanted to add: if you have jewish neighbors, it's okay to tell them that you are thinking of them now, and that you stand with them against antisemitic acts. i know sometimes people wonder whether saying something is OK, so i wanted to reassure, if it's helpful. joy
participants (2)
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Highland Park Community Council
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Joy