American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee

**American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee**
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The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), also known as The Joint or JDC, is the largest humanitarian organization in the world. Established on November 27, 1914, by merging three committees for assistance that were previously separate.

### History

The JDC was founded initially to provide assistance to Jews living in Palestine under Turkish rule. However, its scope soon expanded to address the needs of Jewish communities worldwide. The organization's establishment was made possible through a donation from Jacob Schiff, a wealthy Jewish entrepreneur and philanthropist, who became the main sponsor of the organization.

### Financing

The JDC began to commit to saving Jews with the help of several key donors. In addition to Jacob Schiff, other notable contributors included Louis Marshall, Felix M. Warburg, and Leon Kamaiky, among others. The American Jewish Relief Committee, founded on October 25, 1914, played a crucial role in raising funds for the JDC.

### Activities

The Joint works to provide a safety net for Jews and Jewish communities worldwide who are in distress. It has been active in many Jewish communities in Ethiopia and former Soviet states, where it continues to renew Jewish life and communities. In addition to its work with Jewish populations, the JDC also assists non-Jews in response to natural disasters or human crises, reflecting its commitment to a "recordation of the world."

In Israel, the JDC operates as a center for social development, focusing on vulnerable populations in cooperation with the Israeli government, associations, and other organizations. One notable partnership is the joint-Essen initiative, which targets the elderly population and provides daily care.

### Partnerships and Activities

The JDC's partnerships and activities are diverse and extensive. Its commitment to assisting those in need has made it a leading humanitarian organization globally.