Nate’s Charities

Last edit of this page 2021.DEC.12

The Jewish Relief Fund was an effort to assist people in Europe, particularly Poland and her neighbors, after World War I. The Wilkes-Barre Evening News, October 25, 1919, lists hundreds of donors in the Wilkes-Barre area. Only parts of the list are given here. Jacob Simon was a $25 donor, and Nate, then just 19 years old, gave $10.

Cousin Gertrude Sweet wrote

I want to thank you for the box you sent the folks.  Nate, it is typical of you to be so considerate and thoughtful.  I just don’t know words enough to truly express our appreciation – just know we heartily thank you.

The envelope matching this letter cannot be found. Based on other detail in the letter, it was likely written in 1932 or 1933. Gertrude was Max Levine’s daughter, so the next letter might also refer to the same gift.

Uncle Max Levine (husband of Aunt Lena Swiersky Levine) wrote from Norfolk, April 28, 1932. His letter has the lines

Dear Nate, I don’t know how to start a letter to you.  I received a package from Mocanaqua with no name on it.  I would answer sooner but I was waiting for a letter to tell us who sent the package, regardless who sent it.  We appreciate it immensely.  Seven or eight years ago I didn’t think I would need help from the family.  Now in my condition I certainly appreciate they thoughtfulness of the one who sent the needy package.  It came in time for Pasech.

Nate’s best known charitable act was the regular Christmas gift of shoes to local children. This continued for many years, even after he retired. There were many news stories highlighting his benevolence.

Left from Wilkes-Barre Times Leader, 1964.DEC.22; Center from Lancaster New Era, 1966.DEC.22; Right from Wilkes-Barre Times Leader, 1968.DEC.18.

Left from Wilkes-Barre Times Leader, 1969.DEC.18; center from Wilkes-Barre Times Leader, 1971.DEC.17; right from Wilkes-Barre Citizens Voice, 1979.DEC.19.
Nate was a regular contributor to charities in Israel. He had many visitors, both at his home and at the store, soliciting money. The above represents a donation he made in the memory of Inga Simon on the 15th anniversary of her death.

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