Two vehicles used by the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, a partner agency of the United Way of Greater Chattanooga, were destroyed by arson while parked at the Jewish Cultural Center on Sunday. The Chattanooga Police Department and the Chattanooga Fire Department, along with the FBI and ATF are investigating the incident.
Service provided by these vehicles was important to Chattanooga residents. These vehicles were used by the Federation's social service department. This department provides a community nurse, delivered meals, case management by a social worker, and transportation for the most vulnerable citizens in our community.
The Federation is seeking a gently-used, four door, full-sized, sedan with low mileage that is extremely reliable to transport constituents to doctor's appointments, outpatient surgery, medication pick-up and the grocery store among other services needed by the elderly at risk members of our community. The Federation would consider the donation of a vehicle for this purpose or donation of a vehicle for resale in order to purchase the appropriate vehicle. The Jewish Federation needs to raise $20,000 to replace one of the two lost vehicles.
To contribute to the vehicle fund on-line go to www.jewishchattanooga.com and the donation box is on the right side of the page below the purple button. To donate financially by phone contact the Federation’s office at 423 493-0270. To donate vehicles please contact Michael Dzik, Federation executive director at 423 893-5443.
The Jewish Federation's board of directors, volunteers and staff appreciate the warm support given the organization at this time by the community. “The community’s heartfelt concern is important to us. Now we are in need of financial assistance in order to continue to serve our constituents,” said Michael Dzik, Federation executive director.
The Jewish Cultural Center, funded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, offers programs, classes, and exhibits; social services; and a preschool—all rooted in Jewish values. The facility enables the Jewish community to raise its visibly, foster relationships, and strengthen its identity in the Chattanooga area. Located at 5461 North Terrace, the center and its programs are open to everyone regardless of religious affiliation.