JWBS’ highly successful poker fundraiser

OWN CORRESPONDENT

Pictured: Convenors, Glynne Wolman and Leigh Brouze

Professional croupiers and dealers were hired to man the tables – and to help the amateur gamblers. JWBS volunteers were everywhere to be seen.

The team called “Poker Pundits” won a 60” flat-screen television which they promptly donated back to charity.

MC for the evening was radio personality and motivational speaker Benita Levine, who said she was proud to be a member of the Jewish community.

“The JWBS ladies work tirelessly and devotedly. Your support is needed to give dignity and hope for those who rely on Jewish assistance. It is also wonderful because there has never been a greater need for the community to be working in unity as it is now. We must donate generously,” she said.

The society, which is 122 years old, is constantly battling for funds. Chairman Judy Wainer said the women had worked relentlessly to make the evening a success.

“The money raised from this event will go to the Chai Education Fund which is used to help scholars, special needs and tertiary education students who are in need.

The money is distributed through the Chevrah Kadisha and last year, 143 learners, including special needs children, were assisted,” she said.

The Society started when Johannesburg was still a dusty mining village during the Gold Rush. It was established in 1893 as the Jewish Ladies Society to alleviate human suffering.

In 1903 the organisation was renamed the Jewish Women’s Benevolent Society and it grew rapidly. In 1904, a clothing depot was established, attached to the Fordsburg Synagogue and this depot is still operational today.

The organisation is now situated in the Sandringham Gardens complex where all the services are provided.

Judy Wainer, the chairman said: “We trust our future endeavours will continue to be successful. We thank the generous sponsors, donors and players for their support.”