Jews right here in Kansas City are facing real economic distress. The year has brought staggering numbers of unemployment, mounting bills and depleted funds. These people need help now. That's where the Gesher Fund comes into play. The Gesher Fund, established by the Jewish Federation in 1985, is an emergency fund for families and individuals that are experiencing a crisis situation and need assistance to help them get through a difficult period. The Jewish Federation is responsible for raising the monies for the Gesher Fund while Jewish Family Services (JFS) administers the program, including the screening of applicants and disbursement of funds.

Gesher means bridge in Hebrew and that's exactly what the fund does – it provides that bridge for members of the Jewish community who are facing an economic emergency.

The Gesher Fund provides money to assist with items including rent, utility bills, food, insurance and many other necessities. Along with receiving a financial subsidy, these people also receive case management services from JFS and referrals to other community agencies when necessary.

However, today it is the Gesher Fund itself that is facing a crisis. The Gesher Fund is nearly depleted and donations are needed now to refill its coffers to help people within the Jewish community facing economic emergencies.

"We are so fortunate that in the past members of the community as well as local foundations have been generous and made contributions to the Gesher Fund," said Shari Stimetz, Federation assistant executive director. "However, the requests have depleted our financial resources as we have seen a rise in the numbers of single parent families struggling to make ends meet, and individuals who are financially challenged while waiting for disability approval. Our Jewish community has a profound history of stepping forward to sustain its most vulnerable members during difficult times, and we are confident that this tradition will continue."

Originally designed to provide up to $350 to individuals and families for a one-time emergency, the Gesher Fund has had to more than double that amount, due to clients' challenging economic conditions.

In 2007, there were more than 124 families and individuals seeking assistance, and over $90,000 was given. In 2006, 84 families/individuals were granted assistance in excess of $55,000. 

For Gesher clients, this assistance is life sustaining as families/individuals often live paycheck to paycheck.  The Gesher Fund offers a "bridge" so that an immediate financial crisis is averted and through JFS Care Management Services, clients are provided apprpriate additional referrals to augment the resources of the Gesher Fund.