Chabad Springs Into Action For Food And Supplies For Houston

From Chabad of Northbrook: Chabad of Northbrook's 'CTeen' sprung into action and organized an incredible Houston Food & Supply Drive.

Volunteers braided Challah which were sold for $18 each, raising an impressive $640 in two hours. By the following day, as the last families came to buy Challahs, the total money fund raised topped $800. Folks stopped by to give supplies and food, as teens sorted and re-packed food, diapers, back-to-school items, and cleaning supplies to be sent to Texas.

“It’s been inspiring to see how the teens came together in this effort,” shared Rabbi Meir Moscowitz, regional director of Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois and Rabbi of Chabad of Northbrook. “These are the moments that truly make a difference in a young person’s life. It says a lot about who they are that they stepped up to the plate to make a difference.”

To date, there are over 300 chapters in 21 countries across six continents. Chabad of Northbrook’s Cteen and Cteen Jr chapter will be the 306th worldwide. The success of CTeen is one that CTeen director, Mrs Esther Greenspan, attributes to CTeen’s unique philosophy. “There’s this stereotypical notion that teens are just tough, immature, and difficult,” says Greenspan. “That could not be further from the truth. Teenagers have insurmountable energy. At CTeen, we believe in the power of youth, and what we offer is a means of channeling that power in a positive and uplifting way.”

Above all, CTeen aims to provide Jewish pre­teens and teens with a strong Jewish identity and Jewish pride. “Having a strong support network of Jewish friends is crucial,” Greenspan explains. “When young Jewish boys and girls to get together, they remain friends through high school, college, and eventually date within their Jewish circle.” Most importantly, CTeen hopes its influence will reach beyond the middle school years, and its lessons in leadership, Judaism, and giving back remain part of the members’ lives as they begin high school, and beyond. Events like the Houston Food & Supply Drive give teens a platform to discover just how much good they’re capable of doing.

“I was so happy to come and help out,” shared Michael, 14. “I felt so helpless watching the events unfold on tv. I decided instead of being a bystander, I would take action.”

After all was gathered, packed up and counted, Chabad of Northbrook's Cteen collected 8 boxes of dry foods, cleaning agents, diapers, baby formula, and more. Together with the community's support, we've raised $1,237. This is just the beginning of the incredible impact teens can make.

To get involved in CTeen and to learn more about Cteen programs for teens and preteens , email EstherG@ChabadNorthbrook.com, or call 847.564.8770 .

Images Courtesy of Chabad of Northbrook