20% of the Jewish community is disabled. Isn’t that shocking? I found this out by reading an excellent article on Matan Kids that addresses their unique needs and how we can take steps to reach out to them.
These suggestions include making necessary changes in the areas of housing, education, employment, spiritual access, and community—a sort of Jewish Disabilities Act.
Because I have witnessed firsthand how many people with disabilities become unaffiliated through default, I think it’s very important to make any reasonable accommodation to keep them included.
We need to also remember that a disability can be mental or physical, and a mental one isn’t always apparent. Sometimes people are embarrassed or afraid to ask for assistance and rarely is it offered.
Instead of wringing our hands about a lack of involvement, let’s try to change it in practical ways:
- Install handicapped ramps and elevators, whenever possible
- Offer both traditional and large print books
- Set up carpools for those who don’t drive
- Employ disabled members to work easy jobs in the temple (cleaning, lawn care, etc.)
- Provide money for their care, which could be from members’ donations or the Rabbi’s discretionary fund
Our members are the true strength of the Jewish Community and everyone should feel welcome.
Do you support a Jewish Disabilities Act?
I’m not against making changes to help anyone who’s disabled, but I can’t believe that number. How could 20% of the entire Jewish population be considered disabled? Seems too high to me.
I think they’re counting depression and other mental disorders in addition to the usual definition of physical disability. I’m not really sure what the correct number is, but I do know for sure that there are many folks who are struggling with disability issues and we need to help them.