For many Jewish federation donors, as for philanthropists generally, global financial upheaval is hitting home. Just as those with the ability to give are impacted, Jewish needs at home and around the world are only intensifying. That means the programs we provide to address those needs through the Annual Campaign are more critical than ever, and even lifesaving. Despite hard financial times domestically, we need your support more than ever for the Annual Campaign. Here is what you need to know:

• Your Annual Campaign donation provides a vital safety net that supports Jews and others in need, at home and abroad. Remember, it's a mitzvah, a commandment, to help those less fortunate, as long as we are able.

• We Jews have always based our tzedakah on the urgency of needs. More people need our help. More of our brothers and sisters are in crisis. Our gifts make a difference in the lives of those Jews who are most affected in these troubled economic times.

• While times are tough and may get tougher, we expect the economy to rebound, as well as our long-term investments. Yet for many in our communities here at home, it's too late. People have lost their jobs, foreclosed on their homes, or seen their savings decimated. In fact, UJC is already hearing from communities of increased demands for programs by Jewish Family Services, kosher food banks and meal programs, financial aid programs and counseling - all of which indicate that the economic fallout is spreading. We can help our communities by ensuring that increased local services are funded and available.

• Despite these hard economic times, we are still fortunate to be in a position to help others around the world who need our assistance. For example, although the Israeli economy is still growing, over onethird of children in Israel and half of the children in Jerusalem live below the poverty line. They are among those vulnerable populations who rely on our Annual Campaign dollars every year.

• This is a global financial crisis, and outside of North America many people are feeling the pinch even more. In Western Europe, for example, the cost of living is generally higher - people pay more for consumer goods and fuel, while salaries are generally lower and income taxes are higher. While Europe may not be facing the same financial challenges as the United States, its needs will inevitably grow.

• The global economic downturn only intensifies Jewish needs. One factor is the dollar's weakened purchasing power globally. In the FSU, our partner agencies have been forced to cut the number of clients by 15 percent. In Israel, 1350 Ethiopian-Israelis will go without our assistance this year.

The only way we can maintain the global programs we fund and meet rising needs is to support the Annual Campaign - and now more than ever, to redouble our commitment as well. Our obligation to the Jewish people and to tzedakah never wavers, even in tough economic times.

To learn more contact Bob Seltzer, Esq., Executive Vice President or David Schultz, Director of Financial Resource Development, Jewish Federation of Atlantic and Cape May Counties, 609-822-4404.