Dear Members and Friends,
We have reached the halfway mark of 2026, and we would like to take this opportunity to update you on the Union of Jewish Women PE news and share some of the work we have been doing.
First and foremost, we must say a heartfelt goodbye to Sandra Orwin, who will be leaving Port Elizabeth mid-August. Sandy is relocating to Melbourne to be with her three children and their families. To say she will be missed does not truly capture how the UJW, the Port Elizabeth Jewish Benevolent Society, and the Chevra Kadisha feel. Sandy has been a pillar of our community since 1999, and her contribution has been immeasurable. We wish her all the very best for her new life in Australia.
We would also like to emphasize the importance of the UJW within both the Jewish community and the broader community. Our work continues to support key organisations such as the Chevra Kadisha, the Benevolent Society, and WIZO, and, when possible, we extend our support to Israel, particularly around the Yom Tovim. As part of our ongoing efforts, we are currently trying to close our UCF account, which is unfortunately on hold due to FICA requirements. We kindly ask those who contribute to the UCF to consider cancelling their stop orders and instead directing their donations to the UJW, where we are closely aware of community needs and can allocate funds effectively.
Our outreach within the broader community remains a priority. We believe it is important to be visible and actively involved, sharing our values and supporting those in need. During the recent severe rains and freezing weather, we purchased 40 blankets for a charity assisting the homeless in Central. Thanks to generous overseas donations, we were also able to provide food parcels and additional blankets. We continue to support St David’s Church by supplying wool, which is returned to us as beautifully made blankets and knitted items for newborn babies. The UJW also responded to a call from two women in Summerstrand who opened their guest houses to refugees. We assembled parcels, particularly for babies, while they prepared sandwiches and boiled eggs, all of which were gratefully received. We also recently funded a 48kg gas refill for a charity that feeds approximately 1,000 people over four days a week. In addition, we have successfully held several book sales, which have contributed meaningfully to our funds. Although Mandela Day fell on Shabbat this year, we ensured that donations of goods were delivered to Hearts for Alternatives.
The work carried out by NPOs is extraordinary, and while much of this responsibility lies with the government, we believe it is our duty to help alleviate suffering wherever we can. As long as we are able to fly the flag of the Union of Jewish Women, we will continue to do so on your behalf. While not having a physical office presents challenges, please remember that we are always just a phone call away and remain fully accessible.
To those who have donated goods or funds, we extend our sincere thanks. Your generosity makes all of this possible, and we are deeply grateful.
We hope you all enjoyed the recent holidays. Good luck to the students who have returned to school – we wish you every success in your final exams.
Our condolences go out to those who have lost loved ones, and we wish a full and speedy recovery to those who are unwell.
Mazeltov to all who have celebrated simchas and special occasions.
We wish you all well for the second half of the year.
Once again, thank you for your continued support, and a special thank you to our dedicated committee for all the work they do on behalf of the Jewish Community of Port Elizabeth.
Please follow us on Facebook and visit our website to stay updated.
Warm regards,
Elaine and Committee
UJW Gqeberha