Knysna fire relief

JEFF KATZ

That being said, it sometimes happens that a major crisis occurs, where we feel that it is necessary for us, on behalf of the Jewish community, to become involved. This was the case last week in the wake of the runaway fires that devastated Knysna and its surrounding areas.

The Board issued an appeal to the community to assist those effected by the disaster. The response was very encouraging, enabling us within a couple of days to send down the first consignment of clothing and other much needed items to the relevant welfare bodies.

Jewish contributions to relief initiatives are being co-ordinated by the SAJBD Cape Council, which is in constant communication with the Garden Route Jewish Association, headed by Myron Robinson.

Myron, in addition to the prominent role he plays in local Jewish affairs, has a long record of public service in the George-Knysna area, and is very involved in efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

I thank all those who have responded so generously to our appeal. For those still wishing to do so, the deposit details are: SA Jewish Board of Deputies (Cape Council) Standard Bank Current Account: 070 703 329 Branch: 020909 Ref: Victim Relief. All contributions will be forwarded to the relevant relief and disaster management bodies. 

Public Services and the maintenance of Jewish tradition 

Currently, a strike by mortuary workers is being undertaken throughout Gauteng, resulting in autopsies and burials being held up and causing widespread distress among bereaved families across all sectors of our society.

In view of the requirements of Jewish law that the body be interred as soon as possible after death, it is having an additional negative impact on our community. The Board is currently working with the Gauteng health authorities and the Chevrah Kadisha to resolve these problems, and are hopeful that a suitable accommodation will soon be made.

This is not the first time that we have involved ourselves in problems relating to Jewish burials. In previous years, we have worked with the Chevrah Kadisha and relevant government departments in resolving such issues as the timeous release of death certificates and questions relating to how autopsies are conducted. Fortunately, these efforts have to date always been successful.

The SAJBD is the interface between the Jewish community and the authorities when it comes to addressing issues of this nature. Through this, we are able to carry out our mandate to ensure that our community continues to be able to observe Jewish practice and tradition in their everyday lives. 

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