Jewish Military Association raises £150k in 36-hour crowdfunding appeal
Hundreds watch interview with Rachel Riley as charity vows to help research story of her grandfather's military service
The Jewish Military Association raised £151,000 in just 36 hours to ensure it continues its vital work in remembrance, education and combatting antisemitism.
Every donation made to AJEX JMA was doubled through generous match funding.
As part of the campaign AJEX held an exclusive interview where hundreds joined to hear national chair Dan Fox interview Rachel Riley MBE about the work she has done combatting antisemitism, her career and family. Following the interview AJEX is now helping to find out more about her grandfathers military service.
Riley said: “We should be grateful to everyone who puts on a uniform in our name. Jews are no different to anyone else”. Rachel praised AJEX for not just supporting veterans in the UK but combatting antisemitism by shinning a spotlight on the sacrifices and the loyalty to Britain Jewish people have, “that we have always had, that we always show”.
Additionally, JFS pupil and cadet Edgar Santos, interviewed 98-year- old D-Day veteran Mervyn Kersh.
Kersh shared the importance of AJEX and connecting the generations so Remembrance is not forgotten and the legacy of Jewish servicemen and women who fought for our freedom lives on. He said: “The numbers are falling of servicemen, I think I am one of the last. It is important everyone Remembers. It mustn’t be allowed to disappear.”
Santos said: “I cannot express how grateful and honoured I am to have been a part of this project. It certainly is something I will remember for a long time.”
AJEX, chief executive Fiona Palmer said: “We are so grateful to everyone who donated and watched the interviews. The cost of living puts huge pressures on finances and the support in reaching our target has ensured that despite tough times we can continue to support veterans and families who depend on us even more, carry on our education programmes in schools, help combat Antisemitism and continue our Remembrance programmes”.
To donate and watch the interviews see www.charityextra.com/AJEX
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