International Programs

International Programs

Operation Lifeline International

Through Operation Lifeline, JRF leads volunteer physicians, nurses, dentists, educators and social workers on missions to crisis-ridden areas around the world. Missions are established based on invitation by a foreign government agency, or by concerned groups or individuals who identify needs we can fulfill. On-site fact-finding is conducted before any mission is established.

Already, JRF has conducted missions in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Hungary, Israel, Jamaica and the Ukraine. Current missions are operating in two cities in Haiti — Léogâne and Port-au-Prince.

 

Operation Lifeline – Haiti

Léogâne was the epicenter of the Jan. 12, 2010 earthquake, where 30,000 people (half of the population) were killed, and 90% of the buildings were flattened. In April, JRF teamed up with 17 American and Canadian medical professionals to treat more than 2,000 earthquake victims in the ruins of Leogane while working from a makeshift hospital of plywood and tarps.

In July, JRF obtained a 400-acre parcel of vacant land from the local government to develop a construction materials factory, community housing, a children’s safe haven, a school and a medical center. The factory will manufacture lightweight, reusable shelters, using alternative energy technologies and creating much-needed jobs.

Construction will likely begin in early 2011.

Port-au-Prince. JRF has adopted Tabarre Elementary School in Port-au-Prince, where 40 students from the neighboring tent city had been sitting on four small benches, 10 kids to a bench. Three teachers had been making less than $100 per month. The plywood school room had no floor and no electricity or air conditioning.

The Merck Company Foundation has provided $200,000 in funding to construct the school and buy uniforms for the children. The project will begin in 2011 and when it is completed, enrollment is expected to double.

JRF also has created an “Adopt A Student” giving program. Donors can sponsor a student’s full tuition for one year, including school supplies, a uniform, furniture and structural improvements to the school for $200 per student. In return, students will send their sponsors letters, photos and samples of their schoolwork.

How You Can Help

Investing in international health and economic development projects helps change the lives of people traumatized by disaster. Your $50 donation could make a significant contribution to house one family.

Operation Lifeline – Haiti Project also needs:

  • Medical equipment and supplies
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Food and clothing
  • Housing experts
  • Fundraising volunteers

Checks Payable to:
Jewish Renaissance Haitian Relief Fund
Jewish Renaissance Foundation
149 Kearney Avenue
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
Attention: Haiti Project Coordinator Yves Theodore

For credit card payment, call Executive Assistant Kristi Zayas at 732-324-2114, x124.