March 2006                                                                                         Nissan 5766

Dear  Friend,

YES! Together again we can make a difference!

When we read the Haggadah at our seders this Pesach and recite the “story of the  Exodus” let us also include our personal “ Exodus” from our birth land.  Let’s talk about what wonderful lives we had then, what we left behind, and the freedom we now enjoy. It is also a time to remember who we left behind. Many of our relatives and friends and fellow Jews chose to stay in South Africa and are now residents in Southern Africa's Jewish homes for the elderly, handicapped, mentally ill and the “children in need” . 

YES, thanks to  your donation to ChaiSouthAfrica last Pesach, you  made a difference in the lives of the many residents that are cared for at the homes. Subsidies were allocated to  many residents whose R600 pension covers less than 15% of the fees, to replace a broken elevator, to provide a caregiver to accompany the very sick to the hospital,  to buy new supplies for the arts and craft program for the mentally handicapped, purchase new kitchen equipment and hospital beds, and  upgraded the much needed security systems.

BUT the needs remain and are greater than ever.  At Passover, it is a mitzvah to invite a stranger to your Seder.  This year, we ask you to invite these residents into your hearts.  By making a tax deductible donation to ChaiSouthAfrica  YOUR donation, together with the many donations made by family members and the community in SA,  will help cover the costs of providing 1000’s of Pesach meals to both residents and indigent South Africans. The urgent needs include some of the following: new carpeting , a new roof, new curtains and bed linen,  new medical equipment, basics like new pots and pans, more training for nurses and staff, and help provide subsidies etc.

So at this year's Seder, when the question is asked "Why is this night different from all other nights?", in your heart you will know that it is different because you welcomed a resident into your heart and your meaningful gift lifted the spirits and provided essential services to someone in need.

Please complete the form below or visit our website at www.chaisouthafrica.com.  Please consider ChaiSouthAfrica’s tributes by making a donation in honor of your Seder hosts or in memory of someone.

Chag Pesach Kasher to you and your family.

ChaiSouthAfrica Committee (see list on www.chaisouthafrica.com ) and all the residents of the homes.