More than 200 Jewish public school children experienced an unforgettable week of fun, inspiration, and Yiddishkeit this Presidents Week as Released Time and the Robinson Machane Yisrael Camp joined forces to create a dynamic week-long winter camp program.

With public schools closed for the holiday week, the special programs gave children the opportunity to spend their vacation immersed in Jewish pride, friendship, and meaningful activities. The schedule was packed with exciting trips, engaging programs, games, and Torah learning, creating a vibrant environment where the children could connect deeply with their heritage while enjoying an action-filled break.

The camp atmosphere was filled with energy from morning until evening. From interactive learning sessions to exciting outings and creative activities, the children experienced a unique blend of fun and inspiration that left a lasting impression. Many participants left the week with meaningful Torah hachlatos to strengthen their Jewish practice and identity.

Rabbi Mordechai Zev Hecht, Director of the Robinson Machane Yisrael Camp, shared his excitement about the program. “When children are given the opportunity to experience Yiddishkeit in such a joyful and uplifting environment, it leaves a lifelong impact. Seeing over two hundred children spend their vacation connecting to Torah, mitzvos, and Jewish pride is truly special.”

The camps, located in Brooklyn and Queens, are part of Released Time’s ongoing effort to provide meaningful Jewish experiences for children and families attending public school.

“Watching them grow in their connection to Yidishkeit was truly remarkable,” said Rabbi Sadya Engel, Director of the Brooklyn Camp division of Released Time.

The programs operate under the umbrella of the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education (NCFJE), the parent organization of Machane Yisrael camps and the Released Time program

This year’s camps came at a time when Released Time is placing renewed emphasis on helping families consider Jewish day school transfers. Through scholarship opportunities connected to the UJA-Federation of New York, families have the opportunity to receive more than $15,000 in scholarship funds.

Rabbi Shimon Hecht of the NCFJE Executive Committee called on the community to help spread awareness of this opportunity. “Many of us know someone who sends their children to public school. We must each take the time to share this opportunity with them, and ensure that finances are not the reason a child does not receive a Jewish education.”

The current scholarship fund initiative is open through March 12, offering families a meaningful opportunity to take the next step in their child’s Jewish journey.

For the more than 200 children who participated, the week of camp was far more than just a vacation program; it was a powerful experience of Jewish pride and connection that many will carry with them long after the week ended. 

Released Time extends its appreciation and thanks to the United Lubavitcher Yeshiva on Ocean Parkway for hosting the Brooklyn camp and to all the bochurim and staff who made the camps so successful.