The Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies issued the update below this evening.
Over the last 48 hours it has become clear that a number of Jewish people have had their homes and businesses destroyed by the floods. There are also a number of people who have evacuated, lost power and/or are stranded in their homes.
Thankfully, all our Jewish institutions and buildings have remained safe and dry.
Queensland Jewish Community Services, Chabad and other communal organisations have been working very hard to ensure we understand the impact on Jewish people.
At this stage, we know the following:
- 20+ people have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses
- 20+ homes and businesses have been flooded
- 6+ homes are currently without power
- 8+ families are isolated in their homes.
We have also been overwhelmed by offers of assistance by Jewish and non-Jewish people. It is testimony to the Jewish spirit that exists here in Queensland. To date more than 50 people have offered to assist in some way.
At this stage, it is too early to provide assistance to those whose houses are still flooded and we will have to wait until the 'official ok' is given to help with the clean-up efforts.
We will be in touch as soon as we are able to assign jobs and activities.
What can you do now?
One of the most critical needs is to assist those people who are without power. If you have a portable generator, camping stove, torches, eskies (and ice) that you can donate, please email Ari Heber ([email protected]) or text to 0423 194 737.
If you know of someone who is in need and they have not made contact with Ari Heber or Rabbi Jaffe, please email [email protected] ASAP.
We are working together to ensure we keep up-to-date on what is happening with communal members in need and will endevour to next update the community after Shabbat.
Please send this email to your Jewish friends and families.
Shalom
Jason Steinberg
President
QJBD Inc.
Stacey Goldring wrote...