(Courtesy of Project Ezrah) In Bergen County, the financial realities many families face are often hidden in plain sight. Yet the numbers tell a striking story: one in seven families in our community have turned to Project Ezrah since 2022 for critical support. Whether it’s providing significant financial assistance, help for Yom Tov, ensuring children have school break activities, or helping someone find a job, Project Ezrah is the safety net that catches families before they fall too far.

The past few years have seen an undeniable rise in requests for assistance. In 2024 alone, direct financial support increased by 20% compared to 2023 — an 80% jump since 2021. Families who once managed on their own are now reaching out, many for the first time. Project Ezrah ensures that when financial hardships hit, whether through job loss, unexpected expenses or life changes, our neighbors are not left to struggle alone.

This past year:

Over 250 families received new Yom Tov clothing, allowing them to celebrate with dignity.

More than 500 people were assisted with Passover expenses, ensuring no family had to choose between rent and their Seder table.

Over 350 families received help with school break activities, offering children normalcy while easing financial strain on parents.

Beyond emergency assistance, Project Ezrah is helping families achieve financial stability through career support. In 2024, their job placement programs brought $3.5 million in salaries back into the community, empowering families to regain their footing. Over 200 job seekers were guided toward sustainable employment, proving that a single opportunity can change an entire household’s trajectory.

Project Ezrah’s impact extends far beyond the individuals we assist — it strengthens the entire community. When a struggling family receives support, their children can focus in school, their home remains stable, and they maintain dignity in their daily lives. When someone secures a well-paying job, they go from needing assistance to being able to give back, continuing the cycle of communal support.

The community’s involvement — whether through donations, volunteering or outreach — has a compounding effect that ripples throughout the community.

Ways You Can Help

Every contribution, no matter how big or small, fuels Project Ezrah’s ability to uplift families. Here’s how you can make a difference:

Donate

Give a one-time gift or set up a monthly recurring donation.

Order mishloach manot to spread joy while supporting families.

Give Matanot L’Evyonim or Maot Chittim for Yom Tov assistance.

Sponsor an event to expand our reach.

Donate to the baby gemach to support new parents.

Volunteer Your Time

Help pack or deliver mishloach manot.

Provide pro bono or discounted services to families in need.

Volunteer with the baby gemach.

Join a professional group that meets quarterly to review community members’ resumes and connect them to opportunities.

Spread the Word

Host a parlor meeting to introduce friends to Project Ezrah.

Join an event committee and be part of the impact.

Become your shul’s Project Ezrah ambassador.

Tell your friends about our work — awareness leads to action.

Be Part of the Safety Net

When you support Project Ezrah, you’re not just helping one family — you’re reinforcing the fabric of our community. A stronger, more stable Bergen County benefits us all.

Visit ezrah.org to get involved today. Together, we can ensure that no family faces financial hardship alone.