The Jewish holiday of Sukkot is a time to connect with family and friends. Chai Lifeline hosted many events throughout the area to enable campers, counselors, and families to meet and enjoy the holiday.
The largest event took place at the Connecticut Sports Center where families enjoyed a day of Ice Skating, Mini-Golf, Laser Tag, bowling, hockey, arcades, and a performance by the New York Boys Choir. Our campers really enjoyed seeing each other and said that while the experience was not as cool as being up in camp, it definitely came close! Later that night, the White Shul in the Five Towns hosted a beautiful Sukkot celebration that included food, dancing, and music. It was a perfect end to a fun filled day.
Across the globe, the Israeli branch of Chai Lifeline hosted a Sukkot celebration at the Great Synagogue. Our counselors ensured that campers and their families were singing, dancing, and having the best time. The guests enjoyed a concert by Israeli superstar Amiram Dvir, were entertained by a juggler, and of course were served many refreshments, Camp Simcha style.
“Sukkot is a time of happiness, and we are determined to give families fighting pediatric illness a chance to rejoice in body and spirit. Events like these allow families to forget about illness for a while. They give children a chance to be kids once again, and parents feel extra happy when they see their boys and girls, in the arms of loving counselors, laughing and playing as if they haven’t a care in the world,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline’s executive vice president.
He added that the happiness of the events comes from the hundreds of volunteers who give their time throughout the year to make a difference in the lives of Chai Lifeline’s children and their families.
“Their compassion and energy make every day into a holiday for our children. The impact of their love is felt all year long,” he emphasized.
So thank you to all of our volunteers who make these events possible, and thank you to our wonderful campers who make the events worth attending! We’ll see y’all next time 🙂