By COLlive reporter
A new home for developmentally disabled Lubavitcher adults was inaugurated Monday in Crown Heights by directors of HASC, parents and community leaders.
Located at 580 East New York Avenue between Brooklyn and Kingston Avenues, the HASC Center was introduced as “a beautiful warm residence that promotes independence and inclusion into the community while facilitating access to all the necessary clinical and therapeutic services.”
HASC’s Clinical Director Rabbi Chaim Wakslak said: “Many years ago the Lubavitcher Rebbe already expressed a point that is critical and important: we need to focus on the highest level of strengths in these children and not weaknesses.
“The Rebbe called to integrate them into the community and this is very much our mission, fulfilling what the Rebbe taught.”
Tzirl Goldman, a Crown Heights resident, remarked that a home like this was merely a dream when she and her husband Shmuel raised their son Chaim – who will reside here.
“This is the only way we can guarantee a full life for our son,” she said in an emotional speech.
“This exemplifies the best of the neighborhood,” said Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, who was born in Crown Heights, before presenting a proclamation in honor of the opening.
“This is a good day for Brooklyn,” he added.
Amongst the attendees: HASC Executive Director Samuel Kahn; Donna Limiti, Acting Director, DDSO (Developmentally Disabled Services Offices); Councilman Mathieu Eugene, Rabbi Jacob Goldstein, Chair Community Board 9; Fred Kreizman, Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit; Chanina Sperlin, executive Vice President of the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council; Rabbi Shea Hecht of the NCFJE.
A first in Crown Height, but typical of the homes that HASC runs throughout the city. You should see the camp in Parksville!
I daven in a shul where the HASC residents are a regular part of the minyon and greater community. They have the opportunity to live as a family in the community. HASC also provides jobs to community residents where they can work in a frum environment and help fellow Yiddin. Rabbi Kahn and his staff have done a great job as always.
Even in a recession ppl go above and beyond!!!
Moshaich Now!
For children or adults?
Thank you for all the pictures. IMHO Just one with all the names would make it worth the cyberspace real-estate used for so many pictures.
You did it again! You are just amazing! I guess this time you to keep your brim down on all sides of your hat, don’t take any criticism for that you look so much more noble and Chsshuv! That’s the way you should look!