Agriculture, A Most Effective Means in Adjusting the Compromised Economic Conditions of Jewish Poor

Abstract:

However beneficial farming must prove to the poor in general, it is exceptionally valuable as an occupation for our Jewish poor. The fact is potent and clear that the physical condition of a very large number of our immigrant Jews excludes them from the ranks of those who may find employment and hold it at the important industries. Farm work, hard and laborious as the immigrant will undoubtedly find it at first, will strengthen him physically as he is at it.

Another advantage of farm life and farm work lies in the fact that it develops self-reliance and inspires self-respect. I am tempted to say that agriculture is the panacea for all the ills of the American ghetto.

In Proceedings of the 54h National Conference of Jewish Charities, 1906, Kohn & Pollock Inc.