In Crown Heights, there exists a life-transforming organization that few in the community know about—yet its impact is monumental. My Extended Family serves close to 700 children in six locations, including one in Crown Heights. This after-school program, advocacy network, and emergency relief fund is dedicated to supporting children from single-parent homes and orphans, giving them a safe space where they are embraced with love and understanding.
The mission of My Extended Family is to provide children experiencing family crises with the support they need to grow into emotionally healthy adults. These kids—all of whom are dealing with incredible challenges such as divorce or the loss of a parent, —often feel invisible within the larger community. My Extended Family makes it a priority to change that, ensuring that each child is seen, heard, and cared for.
As one mom who asked for anonymity said, “My daughter can not wait to go to the weekly after school program and spend time with her friends there, especially her ‘Big Sister’…. No one should know what it’s like to be a single mom, but everyone should know what incredible work MYEF is doing.” My Extended Family gives these precious children the tools they need to succeed in life. For many, this is more than a program—it’s a second home.
As we approach Yom Kippur, Rabbi Yoseph Vigler, Co-Founder of My Extended Family, shared the Rebbe’s powerful message from Vov Tishrei 5716: the secret to receiving everything we need from Hashem lies in selfless giving. “Find a complete stranger in need, “vildeh fremdeh mensch” and give them exactly what they require—no questions asked, no strings attached” Just as you meet the needs of a fellow Jew without conditions, Hashem will respond to your tefilos in kind. This powerful idea underpins the work of My Extended Family, which operates on the principle of giving without judgment, ensuring that these kinderlach have everything they need to thrive.
This Yom Kippur, as you reflect on how to connect with Hashem and secure the brachos of the year ahead, consider supporting a family in need through My Extended Family.
To support a family directly and discreetly, you can Zelle or PayPal to [email protected], noting “Family Yomtov Crown Heights.” Or, reach out to Rabbi Vigler at [email protected] to be connected directly to a family.
