CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1878
Our History
1878 - The Start
Since its inception on 28 February 1878, the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board has been a cornerstone of compassion, support, and community in Leeds. Initially known as the Board of Guardians, our mission was clear: to provide extensive relief to those in need, eradicating the necessity for doorstep begging and fostering self-sufficiency.
1921
By 1921, we were managing 183 cases of residential relief, aiding 627 individuals with 3,599 benefits. Additionally, 108 non-residents received crucial help during that year. In the 1920s, the generosity of Mrs. Clive Behrens allowed us to extend our care to a convalescent home in Malton.
Board of Guardians
In the early days, the Board of Guardians functioned solely through the dedication of volunteers and the courage of those seeking assistance. No professional staff were employed, and clients presented themselves to a 'panel' to state their case for welfare and support. Some anecdotes from our archives reveal the lengths we went to help those in need, from funding passage to America to providing dental care and supporting discharged soldiers and their families. These stories illustrate the depth of our commitment to the community.
1930 - New Premises
In the heart of Leeds, our first address on Belgrave Street, near the bustling shopping district, became a symbol of hope and assistance. For half a century, we operated from this location, before relocating to Brunswick Place in 1930. It was here that we continued our mission of lending a helping hand, a mission that has stood the test of time.
1942
The Second World War brought both challenges and opportunities for us. A wave of immigrants sought refuge in Leeds, necessitating new levels of support. With resilience and community spirit, our constitution was redefined in 1942, laying the foundation for the organisation we are today. Some anecdotes from our archives reveal the lengths we went to help those in need, from funding passage to America to providing dental care and supporting discharged soldiers and their families. These stories illustrate the depth of our commitment to the community.
1949
Post-war, we evolved with the changing landscape of social care. Our services expanded to include communal sedarim at Passover, rights for prisoners, hospital visits, outings, and holidays. A general welfare committee emerged in 1949, introducing initiatives like meals, visits to the sick, and clothing distribution.Some anecdotes from our archives reveal the lengths we went to help those in need, from funding passage to America to providing dental care and supporting discharged soldiers and their families. These stories illustrate the depth of our commitment to the community.
1950s
The 1950s marked the establishment of The Leeds Jewish Housing Association and a home help scheme. The 1960s saw the construction of The Queenshill Community Centre, a testament to our commitment to community growth.
1969
In 1969, The League of Guardians was established, and in 1971, we adopted the name 'The Leeds Jewish Welfare Board.' Westhill House, opened in the same year, foreshadowed our ongoing dedication to providing specialised care.
1973
The Queenshill Day Centre, was inaugurated in 1973, offering a vibrant space for socialising, skill-building, and leisure activities for the elderly. The current Marjorie & Arnold Ziff Community Centre (MAZCC) opened in 2004.
2005 - Moving again
In 2004, we took our next stride towards progress with the inauguration of the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Community Centre, our current home, situated on Stonegate Road. Today, with over a century of tradition, we stand as a beacon of support, with a team of over 100 dedicated professionals and hundreds of volunteers serving across numerous committees.
You have the power to change lives
YOUR support keeps our doors open. The money YOU raise, the items YOU donate and the time YOU volunteer helps us to positively change the lives of thousands of people in our community