UJIA hopes that synagogue-goers will put aside their credit-crunch concerns to raise a record £1.6 million from this year's Kol Nidre appeal, for projects at home and in Israel.
"We are sensitive to the uncertain economic climate and expect there may be a slight knock-on effect," said Kol Nidre co-ordinator Simon Margolis. "But we do hope that the community will recognise their sense of responsibility to charitable giving, especially at this time of year.
"However difficult it is for us, think how much more difficult it is for those who depend on our support. The needs of our community here and in the Galil are still great."
The appeal is supported by the United Synagogue, Reform Judaism and Spanish and Portuguese Congregation. Over 120 synagogues will be involved and the organisers estimate that they will reach over 100,000 people on Yom Kippur. The message this year is "Forgiving".