UJA 1974 Goal is $750 Million

“Emergency conditions in Israel, resulting from the new war have enormously increased the need for support of philanthropic, non-governmental services there,” Paul Zuckerman, General Chairman of the United Jewish Appeal announced today. Zuckerman said that continuation of these vital programs must be maintained and expanded by voluntary contributions from the Jewish communities in the free world.

“As a result,” he added, “a decision was reached at a series of regional meetings held throughout the country during the last few days to increase the 1974 National UJA campaign goal to $750 million. Participants in the meetings included the UJA Executive Committee and other leaders of the American Jewish community. An additional goal of $150 million is being projected for the local Jewish community needs.

Zuckerman also announced that a study group-comprised of a small number of UJA’s leadership-will depart for Israel soon to witness first hand the current situation and observe the dimensions of need. The response of the American Jewish community to the UJA’s one-week emergency cash campaign has surpassed the $100 million goal, according to Zuckerman. Funds received during this initial effort came primarily from cash payments on existing 1973 pledges.

“The 1974 campaign begins immediately,” Zuckerman stated “Many of the ongoing institutions and services in Israel will suffer serious cutbacks or possible elimination unless funds are quickly provided to maintain them. The consequence of our failure would mean human suffering. Immigrants will be without the means to build new lives in Israel. The ill and the aged and the handicapped and the deprived will be literally without the means to survive. Students will be without the means to continue their education. We have no choice but to succeed. Unprecedented giving for the 1974 campaign is the one important way we can encourage the people of Israel through the difficult days that lie ahead.”