In a heartwarming display of community compassion, congregants of Temple Beth-El of Great Neck, led by Rabbi Megan Brumer, undertook a “Midnight Run” last month to assist the homeless population in Manhattan. T
he dedicated group distributed winter coats and outerwear, toiletries, hot drinks and warm meals, and kindness to those in need.
Temple Beth-El has long been known for its commitment to “tikkun olam”: community service and social justice, and this Midnight Run was a testament to the congregation’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond their spiritual home.
Starting earlier in the evening, groups of Temple Beth-El members including Religious School teens and their parents, assembled at the temple with bags filled with food, hot drinks, warm clothing, and toiletries donated by fellow congregants and the Great Neck community.
The atmosphere was filled with a sense of purpose and empathy as they embarked on their caravan journey to Manhattan.
Upon reaching their appointed stops in the Upper East Side, the congregants met groups of men and women and handed out bags of toiletries, hot coffee, soup, and sandwiches, while allowing them to select among the many different bags of clothing: coats, scarves, hats, gloves, sweaters, blankets and more.
With genuine smiles and warm greetings, they offered not only the physical necessities but also a moment of connection and humanity to those often marginalized in society.
“It was so nice to bring Midnight Run back to TBE. I loved seeing the teens and their parents working together to help those in need, both at our prep event and on the night of the run. I look forward to doing this for years to come.” remarked Rabbi Megan Brumer.
The Midnight Run continued until 1:30 a.m., with the Temple Beth-El congregants distributing essentials and engaging in conversations with the homeless population. Many expressed gratitude for the unexpected assistance and the warmth extended by the Temple Beth-El community.
The Midnight Run not only provided tangible support to the homeless individuals in Manhattan but also served as an inspiring example of how communities can come together to make a positive impact on the lives of those less fortunate.
As the congregants of Temple Beth-El return to their homes, the echoes of their Midnight Run will undoubtedly resonate within the community, inspiring others to engage in acts of kindness and compassion.
Founded in 1928, the peninsula’s first synagogue is located at 5 Old Mill Road in Great Neck. To learn more, call 516-487-0900, visit www.tbegreatneck.org or email info@tbegreatneck.org.
