About the NCFJE
The National Committee for Furtherance of Jewish Education is a multifaceted charity that protects, feeds, and educates thousands of children and families throughout the New York metro area and across the nation.
Founded in 1940 by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson ORM, the NCFJE was one of the first Chabad Lubavitch charities established in the United States. Its principal mission was to provide Jewish public school students with a free Jewish education through the Jewish Released Time Program, which at its height reached as many as ten thousand children every week.
Under the leadership of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson ORM, the NCFJE expanded its reach and strengthened its impact.
Soon after its founding, Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht was appointed to lead the organization and broaden the range and intensity of its activities. Many Released Time students came from homes facing economic and social hardship, and the NCFJE responded by creating a wide array of educational and humanitarian services.
The NCFJE established Camp Emunah in 1953, the first overnight camp for Jewish girls, which continues to serve generations of campers. In addition, the organization opened Hadar Hatorah nad Machon Chana, the first yeshivas created specifically for baalei teshuvah, offering a place for sincere Jewish learning and growth.
The NCFJE became known for addressing the pressing challenges of each era. Its work included rescuing over one thousand Jewish children from Iran, establishing the Colony of Hope in Israel, and providing counseling and hotline services following the Crown Heights riots and the Brooklyn Bridge shootings.
Today, the NCFJE continues to operate the programs developed under Rabbi J. J. Hecht, providing fast, discreet, and dignified assistance to families throughout the Jewish community. Although much has changed since 1940, our mission remains the same: helping children and families through education and charity.
Our schools, programs, and activities include the Released Time Program of Greater New York, Camp Emunah, Hadar Hatorah, Machon L'yahadus Chana, The Rennert Jewish Summer fellowship, several Chabad centers in the Hudson Valley, Kings and Nassau Counties, Camp Shaloh, Day camps in New York City, the Toys for Hospitalized Children Drive, Operatrion Survival, T.A.G, Orphan Poor & Sick Fund, Keren Chava, Pidyon Shvuyim, Lag B'omer parades, Special Holiday Rallies, Friday Food Bank and many more educational and social services projects.
From Montauk to the Hudson Valley, NCFJE programs provide education, care, and vital social services to tens of thousands of people across New York State. Our work strengthens families, uplifts communities, and helps build a brighter Jewish future
CLICK HERE to see our NCFJE Current Board Members!
