Jewish and Non-jewish Organizations Have Helped Wrb Save Thousands, Says Pehle

Jewish organizations have made notable contributions – both financial and otherwise – to the work of the War Refugee Board, enabling it to save many thousands of persons in Europe, John W. Pehle, executive director of the Board, stated last night, addressing a meeting of the Combined Jewish Appeal of Boston. He cited in particular the work of the constituent agencies of the United Jewish Appeal – the United Palestine Appeal, the National Refugee Service and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, as well as the HIAS and the World Jewish Congress.

Protestant and Catholic organizations also have helped in the task of rescue, Mr. Pehle stated. “The record of the Catholic Church in this regard has been inspiring,” he said. “All over Europe, Catholic priests have furnished hiding places and protection to the persecuted. His Holiness, Pope Pius XII, has interceded on many occasions in behalf of refugees in danger.” Archbishop Spellman and the late Alfred E. Smith had also contributed effectively to the success of these efforts, he added.