Agudath Israel of America’s Florida Office commends Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for including a new $3.5 million grant to support busing for Jewish day school and yeshiva students during the 2024-2025 school year in the state budget.
The grant will be administered by Agudath Israel and will help cover the cost of transportation for hundreds of students including many who have not been able to access transportation previously.
“In the wake of an alarming increase in antisemitic incidents and threats, Jewish schools have become more vulnerable targets,” said Rabbi Avrohom Luban, Associate Director of Agudath Israel’s Florida Office.
Providing transportation will enhance the safety of Jewish students and schools by adding an essential layer of protection. Buses will help streamline the drop-off and pickup processes, limiting the number of private vehicles entering school properties and allowing for better control of the area.
“Ensuring that nonpublic school students have access to safe transportation is a priority for Agudath Israel and something we have worked hard to achieve for students around the country, including in Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and now Florida,” said Rabbi A.D. Motzen, National Director of Government Affairs for Agudath Israel.
“Agudath Israel extends our sincere gratitude to Governor Ron DeSantis, Senator Lauren Book, and Representative Mike Caruso for prioritizing this vital transportation funding in the state budget,” said Rabbi Moshe Matz, director of Agudath Israel’s Florida Office.
{Matzav.com}