As the shadows of this horrific war loom over Jerusalem, an unexpected source of light emerges – a weekly Hafrashat Challah. This gathering, uniting a diverse group of women, brings both shared pain and empowerment to the mothers of hostages, who are honored each week to lead the event with a bracha.
In the midst of understandable stress and deflation, these mothers, initially disconnected when walking through the door, leave the gathering elated with an indomitable spirit, uplifting everyone around them. Jerusalem residents, alongside displaced families from the North and South, find solace in becoming givers rather than perpetual receivers.
International groups, feeling helpless from afar, contribute to Chabad’s efforts. Recently, a group of women from the Synagogue of Palm Beach joined the cause, singing and dancing with Israeli women, creating a moving and uplifting experience.
Chabad of Talbiya – Mamilla’s war relief efforts extend to alot more than just 12 weeks of Challa bakes.
With the Amshelanu boutique in operation for the past 12 weeks, beautiful clothing, shoes, essential items and other therapeuic services are offered/ distributed to evacuated families to help with their basic necessities. Shlucha Chani Baram from Philadelphia, witnessing the operations firsthand, shares the touching story of a woman from Kiryat Shmona, once financially stable, now without a home due to war-related challenges in addition to being a single mom with her husband fighting in Gaza. Her birthday wish for a new coat exemplifies the dignity these contributions bring during difficult times. Many store owners of Crown Heights and around the world, have sent over brand new, beautiful items for the giving center. Mrs Devorie Krasnianski and Shlucha Malkie Herson took two weeks out of their already hectic home and work schedule to fly to Israel to help run the boutique while Chabad of Mamilla with an Herculean effort, ran their 12th annual seven day Light Up Mamilla Project over Chanuka.
Simultaneously, Chabad Talbiya sponsored their 2 Friendship Circle Central Jerusalem winter Chanuka Day Camps (the girls camp led by Fraidy Raskin and Chana Block who flew in specifically from Melbourne, Australia, to help with this shlichus..). This brought vital cheer to the many childen at FC Jeru’ who are at war to be seen each day and could not be sidelined. Never did we dream this work would go on like this for weeks on end. But the end is far from in sight and the work cannot stop now.
For over 16 years, Chabad of Talbiya-Mamilla directed by Shluchim Rabbi Eliyahu and Chanale Canterman, has been a creative force in community programs including the vibrant Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem. Now, amidst war, their operations expand to support families relocating to Jerusalem. With a team of 200+ volunteers, they’ve addressed the colossal, growing needs of over 350 evacuated families, infusing every program with dignity and compassion.Every mission visiting Israel should be encouraged to visit Chabad of talbiya’s work operating out of Achad Ha’am 3 in Jerusalem (0737858528).
Beyond their regular budget, urgent funds are needed to sustain these expanded programs. Thanks to generous Matchers, every contribution is doubled during their year end Bring Back the Light campaign. Your support enables crucial programs like The Boutique, Monday Kindergarten, Tuesday Juniors Rejuvenate program, Challah Bake, and Shabbat Meals to continue. A taste of these prgrams can be seen below.
The campaign, extended through this Monday, invites you to be a part of this impactful initiative. Every donation generates a fully tax-deductible receipt in four currencies, emphasizing that your contribution is more than financial – it’s a powerful statement of unity and shared triumphs Am Yisrael Chai.
