It is hard to imagine that we have homeless families and needy children in the suburbs of Philadelphia. In Montgomery County alone, there are over 20 agencies helping those in need. There are women’s shelters, group homes & other places of refuge for these families in our own backyard.
The Pajama Program provides new, warm pajamas and books to children and teens who are underprivileged. B’nai Mitzvah students can lend a hand in so many ways. The best way to help out is to hold a PJ/Book Drive and volunteer to pick up donations in their area. Some kids host a bowling party and let their guests bowl in their pajamas while donating to a worthy cause. Others host sleepovers, spa nights and other fun events to draw attention to draw attention to the needs of the community.
Pennsylvania Chapter President, Christina Kadri mentioned that it doesn’t take much to raise awareness. She said that many people have events in lieu of a birthday party. She remarked that one simple You Tube Video resulted in lots of donations. She emphasized that most of the donations go to local shelters.
Currently, there is a big demand for books and pajamas for tweens and teens.
To find out more about the Pajama Program and donate to this worthy cause, visit their website at www.pajamaprogram.org.
by Elisa Heisman
Elisa Heisman is the Program Director at Congregation Beth Or in Maple Glen, PA. She enjoys her work connecting people to the local Jewish community through spiritual, cultural, educational & charitable opportunities. In addition, she is the author of her own blog, Kvell Corner (www.kvellcorner.blogspot.com), a blog dedicated to kvell-ing more and kvetch-ing less about life.