For weeks, volunteers from Temple Shalom, JFCS, The Temple Preschool, Adath Jeshurun, Keneseth Israel and Anshei Sfard participated in the annual “Hanukkah Helpers” program. They shopped for more than 50 Jewish children who otherwise would have had little or no Chanukah gifts or food.
The efforts of Sheilah Abramson Miles and Temple Shalom, who took the lead on this program and purchased and wrapped hundreds of gifts, combined with the efforts of many others in the community, made a stunning display of generosity in the JFCS Boardroom on Sunday, December 2.
For the second year, Ed Goldberg and his son, Brian, generously loaned JFCS a large truck and skillful driver to carry the load of presents over from Temple Shalom to JFCS. The Boardroom was bursting with bags and boxes, which were schlepped in from the truck by gleeful children who were participating in Family Mitzvah program.
Ellen Shaikun and Bill Ryan on guitars and two talented percussionists entertained the crowd of more than 60 volunteers who sang along with Chanukah songs and other favorites like Hava Nagila, as well as a very catchy song written by JFCS Board President Debbie Friedman, JoAnna Weiss even did some Israeli dancing. Many clapped and cheered creating a happy cacophony.
Children and their parents played dreidel and, using their imagination, created crafts for families and seniors. Many children wrote “I love you” on their cards when parents explained to whom the cards would go.
Jennifer Jacobson of the Orthodox Preschool said: “We really enjoyed ourselves. Carson keeps saying ‘good mitzvah’ so it made an impression!”
“It was a lovely event – you all did a wonderful job,” Carole Goldberg said.
“It was the best Family Mitzvah ever!” Aya Golding, who presided over the craft and snack room, said.
“It was a great event!” Tami Penner said, “I can’t believe I had never been to a Family Mitzvah event before. It was so much fun!”
The Family Mitzvah Committee Chair is Beth Salamon. She encourages friends, neighbors and anyone to whom she speaks to attend and/or volunteer with the Family Mitzvah Committee.
