MIFA clients to benefit from utility match announced by Governor; Temple Israel makes first donation to be matched
Memphis, Tennessee (December 22, 2008) – This afternoon, Temple Israel President William (Billy) E. Orgel presented the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA) with the first check from the congregation's "Light up the City" campaign. This $5,100 donation will be matched two-to-one as a result of state funds being allocated to each Community Service Agency (CSA) in Tennessee. MIFA Emergency Services staff members will work in conjunction with the Shelby County CSA office to screen eligible participants.
Thanks to the match announced by Governor Phil Bredesen on Friday, December 19, the Temple Israel donation will help several hundred families keep their lights on this holiday season.
“Although the true meaning of Chanukah isn't about getting presents, in the United States, many Jewish children look forward to receiving one present for each night of Chanukah,” says Barb Gelb, Director of Education at Temple Israel.
“At our Sunday school, the students talked about what it would be like to live without heat or lights in their homes. Then each child was asked to decorate a card asking their parents to give to the ‘Light Up the City’ campaign instead of giving them a gift for one night of Chanukah. The following week the students brought the cards back with a donation in lieu of one night of Chanukah. We wanted to help others in this community and found it natural to tie in the lights of Chanukah with an effort to provide light and heat to the rest of the community,” Gelb comments.
MIFA Executive Director Margaret Craddock states, "Between January and November 2008, our Emergency Services program has seen a 27% increase in the number of families applying for utility assistance compared to the same time period in 2007. There are an overwhelming number of families who are in crisis and have experienced an unexpected loss in income. This donation from Temple Israel sets an example for other organizations and individuals. Just think of how many more families can be given a hand up if others donate to MIFA for utility assistance."
Any local, non-federal funds donated toward utility assistance are eligible for this match until June 30, 2009. Donations can be made on a recurring basis to the Plus-1 program or as a one-time donation to MIFA. To donate, call MIFA at 527-0208. Information is also available through the Shelby County Community Services Agency at 901-545-4630.