Community Magazine May 2012

F or the past few generations, describing someone in the Sephardic community of New York and New Jersey as “being hungry” evoked the positive connotation of an ambitious businessman, eager to go the extra mile to close a deal, and destined for success. Today, however, the term “hungry” is being used far more commonly in its literal sense, to describe struggling Sephardic families who find themselves unable to put enough food on the table. Since the economic downturn in 2008, the number of people who cannot find work has risen by nearly 70 percent, with the national unemployment rate climbing from 6.1 percent to a staggering 10 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. One old-timer from the community witnessing this phenomenon described it shockingly as, “reminiscent of the Great Depression when people would literally be tightening their belts to subdue their hunger pangs.” Only, unlike the Great Depression, the current economic hardship is not affecting everyone. Alongside suffering families are those who continue to find prosperity in their career or business. But the differences between the haves and the have-nots are barely visible on the surface. Within the traditionally proud Sephardic community, appearing needy or asking for help can be especially difficult. And this reluctance among many to reveal their hardship to family and friends has resulted in a heavier burden being cast upon organizations like the Sephardic Food Fund (SFF), which was built around a system that affords maximum discretion and anonymity for recipients. SUFFERING IN SILENCE Joey * is a prime example of this trend. He ran a family business that once boasted a chain of retail locations throughout New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. But after falling on difficult times for several years, he was left with just one store buried in debt and suppliers threatening to sue. The pressure is immense, but Joey knows how to hide it. He comes to kinees (synagogue) * Name changed to protect privacy In Your Family? The answer may surprise you. 30 Community magazine