Georgia Appeal

KEY FACTS

There has been a Jewish presence in Georgia for twenty-six centuries

WJR has been providing ongoing welfare support to elderly, socially isolated Jewish Georgians for more than two years.

In response to the recent military actions in Georgia and South Ossetia in August 2008, and the devastation that the situation has left in its wake, WJR -- fulfilling its role in channelling the UK Jewish community's response to international disasters -- has launched an Appeal to raise critical funds for those affected by the conflict.

Whilst continually monitoring the situation to ascertain where the need is greatest and how best to alleviate it, WJR is calling on the UK Jewish community to support its work through trusted local partners, to provide protection, shelter and basic welfare assistance for those affected in the region.

The conflict in South Ossetia has displaced Ossetians into Russia and Georgians out of Ossetia, towards Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Small Jewish communities in all locations have been affected by the violence, with many fleeing to search for safe havens. Although the fighting has ceased, the situation in South Ossetia remains unstable. Targeted support is required and WJR has identified vulnerable individuals who require immediate assistance. These include over 700 Jewish elderly and children who are at risk, some of whom are now being housed by fellow Jews in Tblisi.

Paul Anticoni, Chief Executive of WJR commented:

"The outbreak of violence has caused extreme distress, and has necessitated huge upheaval for many. WJR is proud to be in a position to call on the Jewish Community to help us to support those who have been affected by the situation.

"WJR is working with a trusted local partner on the ground to channel effectively the funds raised and ensure as many people as possible, particularly those most at risk, are protected."

There has been a Jewish presence in Georgia for twenty-six centuries. Today, there are approximately 10,000 Jews in the country, many of whom already struggle to survive on meagre pensions and limited state assistance that does not cover even the most basic needs of shelter, medicine and adequate food. WJR has been providing ongoing welfare support to elderly, socially isolated Jewish Georgians for more than two years.

To support WJR's Georgia Appeal, please follow the link below or call 020 8736 1250.

****Update on Situation in Georgia - 29.8.08****

Tensions between Georgia and Russia remain high and civilians continue to suffer the consequences. According to UN agencies, almost 160,000 people were displaced, including up to 40,000 from Gori alone. Around 700 Jews are currently being supported by WJR and local partners, having fled their homes for the safety of Tbilisi. Despite temperatures of over 30 degrees, WJR and other NGOs are already turning their thoughts to the harsh winter ahead.

The government of Georgia is encouraging host families to register to receive benefits that will allow them to support IDPs for longer in an attempt to care for displaced peoples. It is also thought that the government plans to close all IDP centres in Tbilisi by the end of September, relocating people to Gori in order to allow the school term to begin unhindered. It is thought that between 15-30,000 people will be permanently displaced following this summer's events. WJR will endeavour to provide support to as many as it can until they are able to support themselves.

****Update on Situation in Georgia - 29.9.08****

At the outbreak of the conflict, huge numbers fled South Ossetia, Gori and surrounding villages and headed to Tbilisi. Two weeks after the end of the conflict, the Government of Georgia encouraged as many displaced people as possible to return home, or at least leave Tbilisi. Around 25,000 are now living in temporary accommodation in Gori -- some in tents, and some in schools or kindergartens around the city. Support is expected to last around six months. Because people are living in kindergartens, there is nowhere for small children to attend school in Gori this year. Schools are opening in shifts to accommodate everyone for the new school year.

The Hesed in Gori closed during the war but was active in helping people get to Tbilisi. Now open again, the Gori Hesed is providing hot meals to 54 people daily -- some in the building, and some via meals-on-wheels.

Georgia is suffering from inflation in line with the rest of the world, but due to the war there are extra financial concerns -- for instance, dairy products in Gori typically came from villages that are today inside Russia's buffer zone. Most of these villages have been razed, and as such, there are no products being made. Gas prices have increased by 50% this year and are expected to rise again by the end of the year following the conflict.

Aid is still needed in the region. WJR will continue to endeavour to provide support to as many as it can until they are again able to support themselves.