Collection for Afghanistan Refugees

Sinai Free Synagogue was proud to be a collection site for much needed supplies for Refugees from Afghanistan, part of an effort by the Westchester Jewish Coalition for Immigration (WJCI).  On Monday, Rabbi Barzilai and co-President Ann Rolett dropped off two car loads of coats, shoes, backpacks, purses and other needed supplies.

Thanks to so many congregants and members of the broader community who generously contributed.  Special thanks to those who helped sort, especially our fabulous young helpers Sydney Nechis and Rosie Kotlowicz.

WJCI sent the following note describing the success of our efforts:

“Yesterday, nearly 150 volunteers gathered at JCC MidWestchester and Shames JCC on the Hudson to sort and pack thousands and thousands of items for Afghan refugees at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. We are so grateful to our partners UJA, Upwardly Global, JCC midWestchester, Shames JCC on the Hudson, AFYA, and the many dedicated volunteers who made this drive so successful. We quadrupled our expectations, meaning so many more items will be delivered to our new Americans. With cold weather coming, the collected coats, shoes, strollers, shampoo, razors, backpacks, and handbags are so desperately needed. A group will be personally unpacking the truckloads at the army base tomorrow, assuring that everything gets safely into the hands of Afghan refugees. Channel 12 stopped by – here is their report.

The results are beyond all of our expectations, and the power of community is stronger than ever. We are beyond grateful to all of you for being involved, spreading the word, and caring.”