Forty members and alumni of Jewish Federations of North America’s National Young Leadership Cabinet, National Women’s Philanthropy, and Changemakers program flew into Washington, DC this week to advocate on behalf of American Jews being hit hardest by antisemitism and societal changes. 

 

During the fly-in to Washington, DC, the leaders had meetings with members of Congress, their staffers, and members of the White House administration to advocate on the Antisemitism Awareness Act, food insecurity, and the increased funding for the Nonprofit Safety Grant Program (NSGP). 

 

“This is an exciting time to be mobilizing for the Jewish community,” said Karen Paikin Barall, Vice President of Government Relations. “Jewish Federations has already held several successful advocacy fly-ins since March, with more on the way — all part of our ongoing effort to lift up the voices of American Jews and make a real impact.”  
 

Changemakers Network Associate Director Elie Allen agreed.
 

“This fly-in marks the beginning of a powerful partnership between the Changemakers community and policymakers – one we hope will grow stronger for years to come,” Allen said.
 

Jewish Federations have held multiple fly-ins advocacy days this year on Capitol Hill this year, including one solely focused on financial vulnerability.
 

“Federations’ unique strength is our ability to mobilize advocates in every state and congressional district—and when lay and professional leaders come together to listen, learn, and lead, we drive real change locally, nationally, and globally,” said Cabinet Public Affairs Co-Chair Jeremy Tunis. 
 

The fly-in comes a week after a bipartisan group of more than 130 House lawmakers put forward the highest-ever request for funding for the NSGP, asking for an appropriation of $500 million, nearly doubling the current funding level.  
 

The funding request, which is supported by Jewish Federations, helps nonprofits, including synagogues and other Jewish institutions, improve their security at a time when antisemitism is affecting American Jews young and old. In 2024, the Anti-Defamation League reported a 344% increase in antisemitic incidents over the past five years and an 893% increase over the past 10 years. It is the highest number on record since ADL began tracking antisemitic incidents 46 years ago. 
 

Those advocating on the Hill this week also pushed for a $10 million request to go towards the Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program (HSAP) to support the critical needs of vulnerable survivors. 

“When we stand together as a community, our advocacy becomes a force for change —protecting our people, uplifting our values, and shaping a future where every Jewish voice counts. Now is the time to act, speak up, and lead," said Cabinet Public Affairs Co-Chair Alex Wertman. 
 

In the wake of October 7th, Federations have seen a surge in Jewish communal life and reliance on our social safety net. Partnerships with robust and continued investment in federal programs like WIC, SNAP, and the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs are crucial to extending our philanthropic dollars, which ensures Jewish communities thrive and remain resilient in challenging times.  

A snapshot of the numbers shows: 
 

• 1 in 5 Jewish households in the US are financially vulnerable 
• 7% of Jewish households are unable to afford necessities like food in the past year 
• 500,000 Jewish adults face food insecurity and cannot consistently afford nutritious meals. 

Federations believe that Congress should protect vital food assistance programs in any budget reconciliation deal; oppose any proposals that limit or cap funding for federal food assistance programs; and oppose cutting food assistance programs restricts religious freedoms by limiting access to kosher meals, which are essential for Jewish people to practice their faith through dietary observance. 
 

“We must meet the needs of those who suffer from food insecurity and seek additional aid in this area,” said NWP Senior Director Sara Fels. "It is essential that we maintain relationships with our elected officials and repeat the message of our unshakable support for these essential needs.”