In launching its Compassionate Healing Hearts program Temple Shalom in Aberdeen will draw on its core of volunteers — 150 of them were honored at a service this spring. Here, lending a hand to clean up the temple grounds are, from left, Paul Robinson, Ruth Queen, and Will Queen.
Advertisement
July 7, 2009
Temple Shalom in Aberdeen is set to roll out a community outreach program to help those suffering in the economic downturn.
Compassionate Healing Hearts will recruit volunteers with expertise in such issues as bankruptcy law, taxes, mental health care, emotional stress, and real estate, said Steven Slome of Matawan, who is chairing the project.
He said he hopes to have the network in place by the High Holy Days in September and that 40 temple members have already come forward to offer professional advice.
“The groundwork has already been set, and we are ready to offer help to people who have fallen on hard times because of the economy,” said Slome.
The synagogue took its cue from a similar program operated for the last year by Temple Rodeph Torah in Marlboro; its Temple Rodeph Torah Cares also includes a job bank.
“They have been very helpful to us in lending advice and assistance based on what they have learned in the last year,” said Slome. ”We want to mirror what they have done.”
The Temple Shalom program will include a “blanket appeal” to employers and will attempt to enlist other houses of worship in the effort.
All calls will be handled by a “compassionate” trained operator who will assess the needs of the caller. After filling out proper paperwork, a professional matching the caller’s needs will be assigned.
Clients have the option of disclosing their identity only to the person handling the initial call. Assistance can be delivered via phone, e-mail, or in person, depending on the client’s choice.
Slome emphasized that while many problems can be handled by one of the volunteer professionals, those requiring immediate professional advice — such as someone facing foreclosure of their home within the next week — may need to contact a paid professional.
Those interested in volunteering or in need of assistance may contact the hotline at 732-589-4846 or tshh09@gmail.com.
Comment: comments@njjewishnews.com
--TOP--