The Unsung Heroes of Crown Heights Bikur Cholim

From newborns to seniors, individuals living alone to large families, and Crown Heights residents to those arriving from out of town for medical treatment, Bikur Cholim extends a helping hand wherever it is needed.

In Parshas Vayeira, we learn that Hashem Himself visited Avraham Avinu following his bris milah, teaching us the profound importance of Bikur Cholim and the comfort that comes from simply being there for someone.

Behind Every Act of Chessed Is Someone Who Cares

When a child was hospitalized, a volunteer drove the mother to the hospital every morning so she could switch shifts with her husband, ensuring their child always had a parent at the bedside.

When a mother traveled from out of town for surgery, she was able to recuperate at Hadassah’s Place, where her young children could visit her over Yom Tov.

For another patient, a volunteer prepared a temporary apartment, adding fresh flowers and thoughtful touches to make an unfamiliar space feel like home.

At a hospital, a volunteer cared for a one-year-old, playing with him and singing niggunim so his parents could spend time with their other children. Another volunteer brought a guitar to the bedside of a seriously ill man, offering comfort through music and companionship.

These are just a few examples of the countless acts of chessed happening quietly throughout our community.

The Gratitude Says It All

Perhaps the greatest testament to the volunteers’ impact comes from the families themselves.

“Thank you for all your help! We literally wouldn’t have had a Yom Tov without you,” wrote one grateful recipient.

Another family, who endured a months-long hospital ordeal, shared:

“When I felt like I was falling apart, finding goodies and flowers at my door reminded me that I was not alone.”

A family who received accommodations during medical treatment wrote:

“Your generosity gave us a sense of security and a home away from home when we needed it most.”

And one recipient summed it up simply:

“It brings me so much peace of mind knowing your organization is there!”

To Our Volunteers: Thank You

To every volunteer who has prepared a meal, driven someone to an appointment, visited a patient, cared for a child, or offered a comforting word, we want you to know how deeply appreciated you are.

You may never fully realize the impact of what you do. A simple ride may allow a mother to sit beside her sick child. A warm meal may provide a struggling family with a much-needed moment of relief. A short visit may bring comfort that lasts long after you leave. Your partnership makes all this possible

As Rosh Chodesh Kislev approaches, we are also reminded of the tremendous joy and relief felt by Chassidim around the world when the Rebbe returned home following his recovery in 5738. That deep sense of connection and concern for one another is the very spirit that inspires the work of Bikur Cholim.

On this special Shabbos, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer who partners with us in caring for our community.You are the heart of Bikur Cholim, and none of this would be possible without you.

May the kindness and compassion that we each generously extend to our community bring with abundant brachos, good health, happiness, nachas, and only revealed goodness. May we soon merit the ultimate healing with the coming of Moshiach now.

With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation,

Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Bikur Cholim of Crown Heights