Dear Friends: 

I am writing to you due to the recent steps taken by New York State which eliminates the funding for the School News Nationwide, Words of Bonds program. This comes at an extremely critical time. I am writing to our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and friends asking them to help us through this crisis.

As many of you know, crime recently climbed in New York, and Hate Crimes are increasing at an alarming rate each year. The numbers go up each year and their virulence increases. Now is not the time to prevent such a dynamic program as ours which not only helps our young people value diversity, but also the positive aspects of respect and understanding differences. Other key components of our program include television broadcasting, newspaper writing, conflict resolution, mentoring, homework help, learning interviewing/ communication, and critical reading skills. I am imploring everyone to help in this difficulty by sending in a tax-deductible contribution of $25.00 or more to School News Nationwide. Please make check payable to School News Nationwide, and send it to 1068 Fulton Street Brooklyn New York 11238.

As you know, the primary focus of our learning experiences is tolerance, speared headed by the painful recounting of Holocaust Survivors. These survivors visit our schools to share their experiences and their wisdom. If our program ceases to be, many of these weary warriors will be too elderly, or infirm to tell their story, or, worse, may no longer be around as living witnesses to past atrocities. We have taken the firm stance that, diversity and tolerance are not only timely, but timeless. In the words of one of the participating young people, "We learned not only what happened to someone else, but what can happen to us, if people do not care". The immediacy of this message is for us.... Please care!

As our children discuss, write and learn to appreciate this remarkable historical human endeavor, they understand the importance of community, respect, and the importance of others as well. As you know, Holocaust Survivors are telling authentic stories, in real time, all with a passionate and impactful plea - that we can make a difference. It is both your awareness, and their story of tolerance and the power of love. We must keep telling it.

I personally thank you for taking the time to seriously ponder this challenge.. I look forward to signing our letter of deep appreciation to each of you, for your generous support. To you, and to all of our other friends throughout the world, please accept our most sincere thanks in advance, for your generous response.

Sally Freshburg, Holocaust Survivor

Board Member