Despite Sandy, Camp Flourishes

Despite having to scramble for a location because of Hurricane Sandy, and despite financial difficulties, Camp Gan Israel Chama in Brighton Beach ran its day camp for the 15th summer.

Once again many Jewish Public school children had a blast this summer, while having fun learning about their heritage, thanks to Camp Gan Israel Chamah situated in the greater Brighton Beach area, for the past 15 years.

One of the highlights of the camp was a Bar Mitzvah in camp. Although we officially accept children till age 12, here was a Public School boy, his family came to our camp for many years. we just could not say no. he turned Bar Mitzvah in camp, and so we celebrated his Bar Mitzvah in camp with his biological family and with his camp family . We also helped him purchase a pair of Tfillin. The most emotional moment of the Simchah was when the boy during his Bar Mitzvah speech committed himself in public to put on Tfillin every day of his life. (see pictures)

The camp is sponsored by Chabad of kingsborough directed by Rabbi Efraim and Chanie Zaltzman and the international Organization CHAMAH. Thank you to all the head staff and staff for making it such a success. Special thanks to Mrs.Chaya Mushka Drookman, Assistant Director, for directing the Camp at the camp site with such skill and dedication. (and… a big Mazal Tov to you and Mendy on the birth of your baby boy).