Community Magazine December 2012

To volunteer for the mitzvah man go to www.mitzvah -man.org or call 347-275-1490 Support for Sandy Sufferers In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, my 84-year-old mother was left stranded on the 10th floor of an apartment building without electricity or water. After speaking to her, it became clear she was running short on supplies. I decided to make the trip and deliver everything that I thought she needed. Coming from Maryland, I needed help, and I needed it badly and really quickly. I had five heavy duffle bags full of water, food and other essentials, which would need to be carried up 10 flights of stairs. My two sons were going to help, but I calculated that we really needed another pair of hands. I contacted the Mitzvah Man to see if he could assist, leaving a message explaining the situation.. Two hours later the Mitzvah Man called me back and said, “We’re ready to help” He arranged for a young man to meet us at the building. This intrepid hero was so kind, so gracious, I was overwhelmed. I never inmy life experienced the feeling of “kulanu Yisrael – we are all Jews” like on that day. Thank you so much for this hesed (kindness). It means a lot to me to know that you are there, local, and armed with a team of ready, willing and able volunteers to help out when there is a real need. –Sharon Mitzvah Man’s Open House When Rabbi Moshe Fingerer, co-founder of Brooklyn Jewish Xperience (BJX), heard that a family from Sea Gate lost their entire home as a result of Hurricane Sandy, he called a community woman, who had helped BJX with an event, and asked her if she knew of anyone who has at least three bedrooms for this family. The woman suggested that the rabbi call Mitzvah Man. Without delay, Mitzvah Man referred the rabbi to Mrs. Dweck who, together with her husband, had just purchased a new home. They willingly offered to lend their previous home – which was still furnished – to this family, rent-free, with heat and electricity still running and paid for. “The Mitzvah Man then arranged for me to speak with Mrs. Cohen, who askedme for a list of items that the family needed,” Rabbi Fingerer continued. “She hand-delivered many brand new necessities.” Mrs. Serure donated a new microwave, hot water urn, and food processor. The lady of the family, who had lost her home and everything in it, was in tears when she received all these items in her rent-free home. She was completely speechless. On the Friday following the disaster, the owner of the home dropped off a vase full of flowers and two hallot with a warm note for the guests. “I am indebted to the Mitzvah Man and to everyone that helped this family. Hashem should bless them all with long life, good health and continued success.” “We want to be like your family. If there‛s anything you need, please let us know. ” 58 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE