President Barack Obama and members of his senior staff met with representatives of The Jewish Federations of North America at the White House during a private reception this afternoon prior to the President’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

During his remarks, President Obama thanked the Jewish leaders for their work in their own communities, and recognized the Jewish Federations for the “countless hours of tzedakah performed every day of every week.” The president also acknowledged his admiration and respect for the Jewish Federation system, beginning with his interactions and experience working for several years with members of the Chicago Federation and reminded the group how important their work is – not only to the Jewish community but the community at large.

The President also took the opportunity to address legislation currently moving through Congress to reform the nation’s health-care system and emphasized the importance of helping those in need. He told the Jewish leaders it is important to ensure in a country as wealthy as the United States, everyone should have the best possible medical care.