The Jewish Board’s rich history is woven from countless lives. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we’re sharing stories of the people we might have served over the decades through our myriad predecessor organizations. We hope that glimpses of these imagined lives — which have been inspired by original historical research — will give you a vivid snapshot of what 150 years of caring for New Yorkers was like.
Weekly Allowance
In 1898, Sarah and Hirsh Abrahams left their home in Chernihiv, Ukraine, to make a new life for their family in America. But Hirsh unexpectedly died on the voyage, leaving Sarah with five children, aged 21, 17, 14, four, and one and a half. Arriving in New York, the older children attempted to find work with no success. A United Hebrew Charities caseworker visited the family and deemed them “worthy of assistance.” Sarah received a small weekly allowance which enabled her to care for her family’s basic needs until her older children secured work.
Join us in looking back at those we served and meet more of the New Yorkers we supported in the last 150 years.
Celebrating 150 Years of Care
Become a Part of History and Get Involved Today
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