As families of the missing continue their vigil in Surfside, I know there is not a single person of good will who doesn’t feel the urge to join with the community to offer support and solace to those who are suffering. For the Jewish people, coming together in times of crisis to help each other and to help others is part of our DNA. This time is no different. In this special edition of Federation Five, you will read about the assistance pouring into Miami from near and far through prayer, statements of solidarity and more than 7,000 donations to Greater Miami Jewish Federation Emergency Fund for the Surfside Building Collapse, which is providing critical assistance in areas of immediate need and planning for the long-term support of the individuals and families directly impacted by the collapse.

The Champlain Towers South catastrophe is a severe wound to our communal self and it’s an open wound that won’t start healing until everyone is accounted for. While the brave first responders and the local and international search and rescue teams continue their meticulous and holy work, we can find comfort in each other and in knowing that our Jewish community in Miami and all over the world is showing solidarity and support with the people affected by this disaster.

Let us continue to hold each other up and pray during this painful time.