269

May 18, 1920

Pres. Women's Relief Society
Congregation B'nai Israel
Sacramento, Calif.

Dear Madam:

The Board of Trustees of the Congregation B'nai Israel, by
resolution unanimously adopted, has decided to apply to your
association for a loan of $1000.00 which it needs fo the purpose of
tiding over some pressing financial difficulties.

The tremendously increased cost of administration has affected
the finances of the synagogue in the same way that it has affected
those of all other organization. The income has been quite
inadequate to cover the expenditures, but enough has been secured
through the generosity of the membership, which in a number of
instances voluntarily increased their payments by over one hundred
percent, to nearly meet this condition.

These efforts to make the income meet the expenditures will be
continued until a balance is obtained.

In the meantime there is an outstanding indebtedness for moneys due
banks and for current bills and this the Board later expects to clear
off by a drive for contributions for this specific purpose.

In view of the fact that we have not yet finished our drive for
increased dues, it would inadvisable immediately to make a demand
of the same people for donations, but this will later be done.

We can raise the money needed in two ways: We can appeal to our own
organizations which are financially able to assist us and which are
interested with the congregation in the maintennance of the Jewish
credit and reputation. Or, we can get assistance from financial
institutions officered by men of other religious affiliations. They have come
to our assistance in the past and will undoubtedly help us again, if
your organization decides that it must deny our application.

The money needed must be secured at once so the Board of Trustees
respectfully suggests that you call a special meeting of your members
for the purpose of considering our appeal for a loan of $1000.00.

Yours respectfully,
[Signature],
Secretary.