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Jewish Homes Destroyed in Earthquake in Greece; JDC Sends Relief

May 7, 1954
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There were no Jews killed in the earthquake which devastated a number of towns in Greece several days ago, but at least three Jews were injured and many homes of Jews were destroyed, the Joint Distribution Committee European office announced here today, Moses W. Beckelman, director general of JDC’s overseas operation, immediately authorized the Athens office of the relief agency to give whatever assistance was needed by the Greek Jews.

Reports received by the JDC here, said that at least three Jews were injured in the town of Carditza, which was hard hit. No injuries have been reported from Tricala, also badly hit, and Bolo, where the quake was less severe. Homes were wrecked in all three cities and in Bolo one of the houses destroyed was that of Grand Rabbi Pessach.

The JDC reports stated that although Greek Government relief was immediate and effective, the major problem is housing the victims, most of whom are in the open, still waiting for tents. The JDC representative in Athens reported that the finances of the Jewish communities of the three towns are in a poor state and the primary source of help is emergency funds provided by the JDC.

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