Shimmy Ben-Abou proudly supported Bikur Cholim of Crown Heights throughout the years. After his untimely passing his family is continuing his generous legacy by expanding Bikur Cholim’s Chanuka gift-giving.
Shimmy Ben-Abou proudly supported Bikur Cholim of Crown Heights throughout the years. After his illness and untimely passing on Rosh Chodesh Elul earlier this year, Mrs. Shoshe Ben-Abou and her daughters approached Bikur Cholim with a wish to continue Shimmy’s generous legacy by expanding Bikur Cholim’s Chanukah gift giving.
Shimmy was described as “sunshine to his family and a beacon of light to so many”. He famously made Chanukah a special time in his own home, filling it with love and light, celebration and giving. In a most fitting tribute to their beloved father and husband, the Ben-Abous wanted to share that joyous light with other families.
For over ten years, Bikur Cholim has been distributing gift packages to children whose lives have been impacted by illness. Thanks to several generous donors and vendors, this project has been bringing joy to children throughout the community around Chanukah time. Bikur Cholim welcomes the Ben-Abous to this special project. With their additional help, over 100 gift packages were distributed this year.
The gift bags contain individually selected items that are personalized for each child, taking their age and interests into account. Older children and teens are treated to Chanukah gelt, in the form of carefully selected gift certificates to a variety of stores including Judaica, electronics, popular eateries, and more. The beautiful smile on a child’s face when they see that someone knew exactly what they were dreaming of is priceless!
Chanuka gift-giving is one of many Bikur Cholim projects centered around yomim tovim, birthdays, and other milestones for CH.A.I. Kids (children affected by illness).
Bikur Cholim recognizes that a child who suffers with medical challenges needs an extra measure of love during special occasions; likewise, a child who lives with the pain and uncertainty of a critically ill parent or sibling needs to know that they are not alone and that the community cares about their happiness and wellbeing.
To join Bikur Cholim’s work in supporting the needs of the medically distressed in the Crown Heights community, please call (718) 467-1661 or email [email protected]
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