ABSTRACT
In addition to material assistance, Anglo-Jewry combined science, sympathy and tzedakah to sustain the spirit and occupy the body of Jewish immigrants. Reformers and philanthropists developed cultural, athletic, educational and recreational activities to redress the disadvantages of slum life. Youth organizations – Scouts, Guides and Lads’ Brigades – Christian, secular and Jewish – reveal contemporary apprehension over the weak physical condition of Britons, declining birth rates, inadequate military readiness and imperial decline. 1 As club records and the Jewish press indicate, Jews felt additional pressure to demonstrate the health and vigour of its immigrant community. 2 Club programmes and membership peaked during the interwar years, many developing into multi-service settlement houses.
