What We Do
NECHAMA’s programs aim to provide disaster-affected communities with the resources needed to heal after experiencing destruction from natural disasters. The core function of our work is to address the immediate needs of post-disaster communities and provide the foundation for rebuilding and full recovery. Our direct service inspires volunteers, supports victims of disasters, and creates more resilient communities.
Immediate Response
NECHAMA’s response work provides immediate services to disaster-affected areas, helping families in the first stage of the disaster recovery process. This often refers to debris removal and “mucking and gutting” homes, which involves removing mud, debris, and water-damaged materials from homes after a disaster, and helping to mitigate the growth of mold. These critical first steps lay the groundwork for victims of disaster to return to their homes as quickly and safely as possible.
Continued Recovery
For communities that experience extreme disasters, NECHAMA often maintains a presence and provides further recovery work, beyond an immediate response. Through the support of local and national partners, we provide long-term assistance and rebuilding services. Our aim is to ensure that homes are rebuilt sustainably, and we often restore them better than their original condition.
Jewish Engagement
Seventy percent of NECHAMA volunteers are Jewish, representing all denominations and backgrounds. For our Jewish volunteers, volunteering with NECHAMA is a transformative experience, connecting Jews through shared values of service and compassion. Sixty percent of our Jewish volunteers are under 35, many seeking meaningful ways to engage with their heritage beyond traditional spaces. As the only national Jewish disaster relief organization, NECHAMA provides a unique opportunity to live out Tikkun Olam and Jewish values, forge bonds across denominations, and strengthen Jewish identity through action.
Combating Antisemitism
NECHAMA’s disaster relief work extends beyond immediate recovery by promoting positive community relations and combating antisemitism. Through our core value of Tikkun Olam, we provide disaster relief without religious bias, offering a visible Jewish presence in communities that often have limited exposure to Jewish life. By caring for all individuals, regardless of faith, we not only support disaster-affected areas but also challenge harmful stereotypes and foster understanding, helping to reduce the spread of antisemitic beliefs and strengthen Jewish ties in rural communities.
What NECHAMA Means To Me
What NECHAMA Means To Me – Rabbi Aaron Gaber
My favorite story, told in various ways, is about a bunch of starfish washed up on the beach. A young boy spent his time returning the starfish one by one... Read More
What NECHAMA Means To Me – Tracy Figueroa
Tracy Figueroa, Board Secretary On September 21st, 1989, Hurricane Hugo slammed into Charleston’s coastline. A Category 4 storm, Hugo tossed boats from the water into the streets, reduced neighborhoods to... Read More
What NECHAMA Means To Me – Stephen Matloff
Stephen Matloff, Board President What my work with NECHAMA proves is that fulfilling our moral obligation to help others in need — sometimes even by quite literally repairing the world... Read More