Crisis of Indian Jewish Community, Support for schools and aid to poor families
By the Grace of G-d
25th of Teves, 5730
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Rabbi. . .
England
Greeting and Blessing:
It has been brought to my attention that the Jewish community in Bombay is facing a serious crisis. According to the information, which apparently comes from a reliable source; there are at present about 450 Baghdadi Jews, and the Bnei Israel community numbers about a couple of thousand spread over the whole of India.
Of three existing Jewish schools, two are expected to close in May, 1970, for lack of funds; and partly also because the number of students has fallen off. The biggest Jewish school is the Jacob Sassoon School, where about 400 children, including Bnei Israels receive more or less free education and free meals. However, because of lack of funds, free meals might be stopped soon, and only snacks will be given to poor children.
I am further informed that poor orphans and widows, and the aged, face increased hardships because of the cuts in the monthly allowances, etc. A case in point is the recently widowed wife of the . . . of the Magen David Synagogue, left with eight children, and unfortunately unable to maintain the middle-class family life that they have been used to.
Knowing your personal interest in the Jewish community of India, especially Bombay, and how much your ancestors have done to provide the vital educational and social services for our brethren there, I am confident that you will look into the present situation, and do all you can in the great tradition of your family.
Hoping this letter finds you in the best of health,
With blessing,
