Students Pack Chanukah Gifts for Children of Prisoners

Mothers and sons of United Lubavitcher Yeshiva of Ocean Parkway gathered to prepare Chanukah packages, containing treats and gifts, for children their age who have a parent in prison.

The room was packed with chocolate coins, sparkly stickers and smiling faces. The devoted mothers and sons of United Lubavitcher Yeshiva of Ocean Parkway were gathered together for an exciting Chanukah event.

Their mission? To send the light and warmth of Chanukah to lonely children across the country.

Devorah Bukiet, Esty Slavin, Rochie Korolitsky and Estiee Lieblich are a passionate group of moms who volunteer on the PTA board of ULYOP. Mrs. Bukiet explains that Chessed is the driving force behind their extraordinary new initiative. “We feel that it’s very important to create an environment and lifestyle for our children that is guided around Chessed,” she explains. “It’s a win-win.These programs help others in need, while teaching our children the joy and value of doing good for others.”

The ULYOP Chanukah party was met with a full house of moms, students and various family members who took the time out of their hectic schedules to represent their school.

The event kicked off with a presentation from Rabbi Sharon Weiss of the Aleph Institute Family Dept. to help foster awareness in the ULYOP students about children their age who have a parent in prison and the challenges that such an ordeal brings.

He explained how much added light this special gesture would bring to over 50 kids who would be receiving care packages made by the students. The young boys were able to appreciate the privileges of their upbringing while recognizing their own tremendous power to uplift another child in need.

Fueled with hot cocoa, enlivened by background Chanukah music, and empowered to make a difference, the students got to work preparing precious care packages for children of incarcerated individuals. Over 50 packages were meticulously decorated, signed with a handwritten note, and stuffed with delicious goodies. These packages will send a powerful message of love to children who feel alone in the world: You matter. I care about you.

Moshe Rabeinu promised Hashem, “The children are the guarantors.” Watching the students of ULYOP pouring infinite love and attention into each and every package, there is no doubt that the future of Hashem’s nation lies in kind and caring hands.

The Aleph Institute thanks the parents and students of United Lubavitcher Yeshivah of Ocean Parkway for partnering with us in our critical mission to bring help, hope and healing to those in need. May we merit to share in the ultimate light of Moshiach, when we will kindle the Chanukah menorah together in the final Beis Hamikdash.