Hill Havurah Response to COVID-19
Even though we can’t currently gather physically, Hill Havurah remains a warm, inclusive Jewish community in the Capitol Hill area and beyond. As we look forward to the day that we can safely come together once again, we are committed to serving the needs of our community and serving as a resource for those looking for both assistance and ways to help those in the Havurah community, our neighborhood, and our city. We’ve found that even while each one of us is experiencing varying degrees of uncertainty, distress, and even trauma, each one of us has something to offer, and those offerings keep us connected and strong.
Spiritual Resources from Hill Havurah
Pastoral care (spiritual and emotional support from our rabbi) -- contact Rabbi Hannah or schedule an appointment at calendly.com/rabbihannah.
Lay-led support groups (regular check-ins and reflection time with fellow community members) -- get involved by contacting Rabbi Hannah.
Virtual prayer services, Torah study, and meditation -- see what’s going on via the calendar and direct questions to Alan Shusterman.
Financial, Logistical, and Social Resources from Hill Havurah
Volunteer and/or ask for logistical or social support on our Communal Support Spreadsheet.
Hill Havurah’s Kehilah Committee is enthusiastically providing social support and matching community members with sources of logistical support as well. Please contact Charity Struthers, Kehilah Committee chair, for more information.
Limited financial assistance may be available for Hill Havurah members on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Rabbi Hannah for more information.
Hill Havurah’s Tikkun Olam and Tzedek Committees are raising money for local organizations that are directly involved in providing food, resources, and other essential services to D.C. residents affected by COVID-19. If you are able to contribute, please donate to the Jon Genderson Memorial Tikkun Olam and Tzedek Fund. If you would like your contribution to support a specific organization, please let us know on the donation form.
We have listed several of those organizations below, along with links to their websites. Martha’s Table, Food for All DC, DC Mutual Aid Network, Capitol Area Food Bank and Jews United for Justice are all in need of volunteers, as well. If you know of other organizations that should be included, please contact Sarah Erdreich.
Resources and Service Opportunities Around the City
The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington
If you or someone you know needs financial assistance or support services, call 703-J-CARING: the Jewish Community support line at 703-522-7464.
Provides food for those in need, as well as wellness resources and educational support.
Provides home grocery delivery for those not mobile enough to make it to other local organizations for assistance.
DC Mutual Aid Network Grassroots
Community-led effort looking to take care of each other and keep our city as safe as possible.
Here are links to their Facebook Page, Big Spreadsheet, and Ward 6 Volunteer Intake Form. For assistance, call hotline at 202-683-9962 or contact ward6mutualaid@gmail.com.
DASH provides access to a continuum of safe housing options to ensure that no survivor has to become homeless as a result of abuse.
Providing food to those in need.
Jews United for Justice’s #JustRecovery campaign
Jewish organization working to make sure that DC's budget prioritizes a just and equitable recovery from COVID-19.
Bikur Cholim of Greater Washington supports the sick and their caregivers in the Jewish community. For grants to cover medical bills or free kosher dinners for those with COVID-19 or cancer, call 202-331-4481 or email info@bikurcholimgw.org.
Hebrew Free Loan Society of Greater Washington
The Hebrew Free Loan Association of Greater Washington provides members of the Jewish community with interest-free loans, including emergency loans for those financially impacted by COVID-19.
Children's Law Center
The Children's Law Center has collected a number of resources for D.C. residents.
