Making a Difference Through Temple Sholom's Midnight Run

After months of preparation, Temple Sholom completed its second Midnight Run of the year on Saturday, October 26, 2019. Thirteen members from the Temple Sholom community, along with VP of Programming Scott Kramer and Rabbi Chaya, packed the rental van and hand-delivered clothing, toiletry kits and meals to approximately 80 homeless individuals in New York City.

Most of the items that were distributed had been purchased via Temple Sholom’s Amazon Wish List, making the process of supporting the social action effort particularly easy with just a
few clicks. Members of Temple Sholom’s JEWEL ( Jewish Enrichment for Women Engaged in Learning) also organized a sign-up form and collection as a way to secure all of the food items needed for the run.

“It was incredibly rewarding to see everything come together,” said Kramer, who chaired the run. “In particular it was inspiring to meet the homeless and to be on the receiving end of their
gratitude and appreciation.”

Added Rabbi Chaya: “According to Rabbinic Tradition, Gemilut Hasadim (acts of loving kindness) is one of the pillars upon which the world stands. During a Midnight Run, we carry out two deeds
most associated with Gemilut Hasadim: feeding the hungry and clothing those in need. Midnight Run, however, adds the elements of relationship building, both within the teams that prepare for
the run and the team that executes it. Most importantly, we build relationships with the population we are serving.”

Participating in Midnight Run has become an ongoing social action initiative for Temple Sholom. If you would like to help support the Spring 2020 Midnight Run, click here to visit the Amazon Wish List of most-needed items.