The "Royal Society for Jewish Welfare" or briefly "De Centrale", was already actif in the 2nd half of the 19th century and was founded on April 20th 1920 by our Honorary President Professor Dr. Emeritus Nico Gunzburg in order to coordinate and centralize all Jewish social and charitable institutions, organizations and associations in Antwerp. Since then our institution has grown and has become one of the major social organisations in Europe.

The Institution aims to extend material and moral help to the indigent and destitute ones of our society. In fulfilling its task, the “Centrale” does not take into account the religious and political convictions of those who need its help. It will continue to fulfill its numerous tasks, conscious of the indispensable part it has to play in the community.

The Centrale has approximately 3.000 members. The board of directors is elected by the members. One third of the Board stands down every two years and can run for re-election.

The members of the Board of Directors elect their President, Secretary, 3 Treasurers, 3 Vice Presidents and the members of the different committees. These committees have specific tasks to fulfil and must carry out proposals approved by the Board. Most committees are helped by professional staff members.

The Centrale is also represented in the European Council of Jewish Communities. As one of the co-founders of this organisation, the Centrale considers the integration of the European Jewish institutions as a natural evolution giving the regional Jewish communities an unprecedented chance to have a strong voice in all important matters.

The Centrale exists more than 80 years. For its 75 anniversary, our institution published a book with its history and present working. We publish a 2-monthly magazine. Every year we organize a prestigious gala concert at which various personalities from the Flemish and National Government are invited.