JTA — Graduates of the Jewish leadership programs funded by Leslie Wexner have long grappled with the Jewish philanthropist’s ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

At least two rabbis have already donated to organizations supporting victims of sexual violence to make amends for benefitting from Wexner’s largesse. Now, a new Jewish fund devoted to the issue has launched — and raised more than $30,000 in its first day.

The announcement of the ASHRU Fund comes as the ongoing release of documents from a federal investigation into Epstein has renewed scrutiny on Wexner, one of his earliest and most significant benefactors, and others with ties to the disgraced financier. Wexner has not been charged with any crime in connection with Epstein’s sex-trafficking offenses and has repeatedly denied knowledge of Epstein’s criminal conduct.

The fund’s name is drawn from a teaching from the prophet Isaiah and stands for Advocacy for Survivors, for Healing, Repair and Understanding. Its architects say whether Wexner actively endorsed Epstein’s behavior is immaterial.

“Regardless of what you believe was done or known, those who were harmed by sexual trafficking and violence need to know that Jewish leaders care about them,” a description on the fund’s website reads. “This fund represents what we believe Jewish leaders must do in a time of crisis — even when the topic may be uncomfortable and hits close to home.”

The fund was founded by Josh Feigelson, the CEO of the Institute for Jewish........

© The Times of Israel