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News at Aleph
Shifra Project Continues to Support Orthodox Jewish Families with Annual School Supplies Distribution
For the past 15 years, the Shifra Project (a project of The Aleph Institute) has been a beacon of support for Orthodox Jewish families in Pittsburgh, PA by providing essential school supplies. These supplies, including backpacks, notebooks, and pencils are crucial for children's education and are often a significant expense for families in the Orthodox community.
"In the Orthodox community, where the average family size is eight people, and larger families are not uncommon, the cost of school supplies can be particularly burdensome," says Rabbi Moishe Mayir Vogel, Executive Director of The Aleph Institute. "Research shows that inadequate access to school supplies can hinder academic performance and affect a child's confidence in the classroom."
According to a 2023 study by the National Retail Federation, families with school-age children spend an average of $890 per year on school supplies and related items. And at least 70% of teachers reported to the Kids In Need Foundation that students who came prepared with the proper school supplies displayed improved participation and confidence. For larger, lower-income families, this expense can represent a significant portion of their household budget, making it challenging to provide all the necessary materials.
Through generous contributions from the National Council for Jewish Women and various other organizations, the Shifra Project has been able to expand its reach and impact over the years. These partnerships have enabled the organization to not only meet the growing demand for school supplies but also to enhance the quality and variety of items distributed.
"We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support from our community partners," adds Vogel. "Their commitment allows us to make a tangible difference in the lives of scores of children each year."
As the new school year approaches, the Shifra Project remains dedicated to its mission of supporting education and empowering families within the Orthodox Jewish community. With continued support, the organization looks forward to expanding its initiatives and making an even greater impact in the years to come.
Prison Chaplains Meet for Support
Last week, Jewish prison chaplains from several states, including Pennsylvania and Ohio, gathered online for a pivotal meeting aimed at bolstering support amidst the multifaceted challenges within correctional facilities. Hosted by The Aleph Institute, the gathering served as a crucial platform for Jewish chaplains to confront pressing issues, such as antisemitism and the complexities of delivering spiritual guidance in prison settings.
During the meeting, which was kindly facilitated by Stefanie Small, Director of Clinical Services at the Jewish Family and Community Services, chaplains voiced growing concerns about incidents of antisemitism occurring among inmates and staff in certain prisons. This troubling trend underscores the urgent need to uphold religious freedoms and cultivate a culture of respect and tolerance within correctional environments.
"Rising antisemitism remains a disturbing reality in specific prisons, impacting the well-being of Jewish inmates and posing challenges to our efforts in providing spiritual support," noted Rabbi Moishe Mayir Vogel, Executive Director of The Aleph Institute.
According to a 2011 Pew Research Center survey, 41% of prison chaplains reported that extreme religious views were somewhat or very common in prisons. Additionally, recent FBI data indicates that nearly 10% of all hate crimes target Jews.
The meeting also addressed broader challenges faced by chaplains, including the emotional demands of their roles and the imperative of developing resilient strategies in a demanding environment. Discussions emphasized the critical need to strengthen support systems for chaplains and promote cultural sensitivity among both inmates and staff.
"We are committed to ensuring that chaplains receive the essential resources and support to effectively fulfill their pivotal role in providing pastoral care and spiritual guidance," affirmed Vogel.