Social Justice
“You are not required to complete the work, but neither are you free to absent yourself from it." – Talmud
In recognition of the central tenet it plays in Judaism, Temple Sinai maintains a strong commitment to social justice. For members of every age, there are opportunities to help repair our world, in Bergen County and beyond. Though the task is great, the opportunity to make an impact is limitless. One need only take the first step.
Following is a sampling of ongoing Social Justice initiatives. For additional information on any of these initiatives, please contact info@templesinaibc.org, and your request will be directed to the representative leading that effort.
Paul Winter Helping Hands Fund – Established in 1992 in memory of Audrey Winter Kahn's father Paul Winter, this initiative assists those in times of need. Funded through your contributions, its actions include providing Shiva meals to mourning congregants and their families, sending get well flowers to those who have been ill, writing condolence cards, making donations to the Center for Food Action, and providing emergency relief funds when natural disasters occur.
High Holy Day Food Drive – Temple members are encouraged to make monetary donations to help support MAZON, a national nonprofit agency that allocates donations from the Jewish community to alleviate hunger worldwide. Temple Sinai sponsors an annual High Holy Day Food Drive to benefit The Center for Food Action in Englewood, NJ. Shopping bags can be picked up in the Temple lobby following Rosh Hashanah services, to be filled with food items and returned to Temple Sinai by Yom Kippur.
Participation with Bonim Builders – As we celebrate the festive holiday of Sukkot, the concept of building shelter takes on special meaning. At various times in the year, Temple Sinai participates with Bonim Builders, a Jewish Federation of Northern NJ (JFNNJ) initiative, to help provide shelter and improve homes in the immediate area.
Midnight Run – Thanks to the donations of warm weather coats from our members, our teens go on a "run" to deliver coats to the homeless in New York City, helping those at risk during the cold weather months.
Holiday Toy Drive – Working with the Bergen County Toy Drive, Temple Sinai works to make Hanukkah happier for underprivileged children. Please consider donating a toy or gift that would make a difference in a young person's life. Suggestions include electronic and board games, arts and crafts supplies, books, dolls, puzzles, sports equipment, and toys with Jewish themes and content. Gift cards for area stores are also welcome, along with Hebrew music CDs and portable CD players.
Plant a Tree in Israel with Jewish National Fund (JNF) – Especially around Tu B'Shevat, consider donating to the Jewish National Fund to aid in efforts to plant trees in Israel! Discover the JNF’s efforts to help with water conservation, too.
