- Phone: (718) 591-5353
Dear ICCJ Families,
Tzedakah, or Jewish charitable giving, is an integral part of our DNA. With a generous heart and an outstretched hand we are taught to give to so many causes for the betterment of our community and humanity.
The C0VID-19 Pandemic has had a deleterious effect on the fundraising capabilities of so many entities, including our beloved religious home. Monies we would normally have received from High Holiday ticket sales, in shul events, and other programs have become unavailable to ICCJ at present. Cleansing expenditures such as readily available hand sanitizers, gloves, masks, and the refiltering of the air conditioning system were just a few of the measures undertaken so our synagogue would be safe for in-person weekly and High Holiday services. Additionally, live streaming via our website was implemented so that our at-home members can experience religious services from the safety of their residences. These unforeseen, necessary expenses were incurred in response to congregant concerns and desires to stay connected with ICCJ and be able to pray with peace of mind.
Every year ICCJ requests donations for its Kol Nidre/Yom Kippur Yizkor appeals. This year, more than ever, our religious home needs your help. We thank you for all you have done in the past. We know times are tough, but if you can give a little extra this year, it would go a long way to make up for the shortfall in revenues and help underwrite the unanticipated costs incurred to insure our congregation’s well-being. Remember that ICCJ is here for you when you need us. Please do the same for our religious home.
It has been said, “If I am just for myself, what am I?” During its Shemini Atzeret Yizkor appeal, at the end of Sukkot, ICCJ donates the proceeds realized to numerous worthwhile charities, both locally and in Israel. This year the synagogue will be sending the funds to City Meals on Wheels, which provides nourishment to our homebound and mobility limited New Yorkers, and to Hatzolah, the neighborhood ambulance company which comes to our aid at a moment’s notice. Depending on the monies raised, donations will also be made to two worthy Israeli institutions. So, at this time of year of personal introspection, we ask you to not be just for yourself but for others who are truly in need.
From our families to yours, we wish you a happy, healthy, safe, and zissin New Year.
Thank you.
Shanah Tovah,
David Schwartz and Sam Weiss
Co-Presidents