May 27, 2011
Federation Supports Overseas Initiatives
B’nai B’rith met with Pope Benedict last month at the Vatican to extend appreciation for his role in fostering Catholic-Jewish relations. The Jewish organization presented the Pope with a dove-and-olive branch gift symbolizing peace. The memento was handmade by people affected by the massive January 2010 earthquake in Haiti through a program that was helped with funding from, Greater Miami Jewish Federation overseas partner, IsraAid, a humanitarian relief coalition.
The gift was made through the Dam Dam Craft Cooperative, an income-generating project that targets women living in communities affected by the earthquake. The project is operated by the Israel non-governmental organization IsraAid and is named, “Dam Dam” (from the Creole word for woman) and employs 90 women in three rural villages. The women mix traditional Haitian designs with modern techniques to create entirely handmade, beautiful pieces of art. The primary purpose of the project is to create a sustainable, long-term income generation source for the women and their families.
The Greater Miami Jewish Federation contributed funding toward the Dam Dam Craft Cooperative in the village Leogane. Over 80% of the town was destroyed by the earthquake making Leogane one of the worst affected areas in all of Haiti. The women then sell the products with IsraAid’s assistance to partner stores, synagogues and Jewish centers around the world. All proceeds are sent back to the village.
Federation’s initiatives in Israel and around the world provide unique opportunities to effect change by working directly with those seeking dignity and a better life. With the generosity and help from Great Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign, IsraAid is able to promote a positive image of Israel and ethical values of the Jewish people.
