In a heartwarming and unique event on November 19, a number of meaningful “shidduchim” were made. YUConnects partnered with the Young Israel of Woodmere, the “Singles Doing Chesed” group, and the Young Israel of Holliswood to pack boots for Israeli soldiers. The event, held in a bustling warehouse in Freeport, brought together 40 enthusiastic attendees motivated by shared values and a love of Israel. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of camaraderie and purpose, as participants worked diligently, blending the spirit of community service with the excitement of meeting new people.
The warehouse, typically a space for storing Amazon goods, has been transformed in recent weeks into a hub of activity as the “Boots for Israel” initiative has been purchasing and shipping much-needed military boots to the reservists fighting Hamas. Many local community volunteers, from Long Island and Queens, have assisted. This specific singles event on a sunny Sunday afternoon aimed not only to foster connections between community members – “solemates” – but also to contribute to a greater cause. At least 66 duffel bags, with 900 pairs of boots, were carefully sorted, tied, packed, and labeled by the enthusiastic group. Hand-written notes of support were rolled and inserted into many of the pairs of boots. Attendees shared stories, laughter, and a definite sense of purpose, as each care package was carefully assembled and prepared for shipment to Israel.
Amidst the organized chaos of the warehouse, there was an unmistakable buzz of goodwill and accomplishment. As participants sorted through stacks of boots, conversations flowed seamlessly, breaking the ice and creating connections that extended beyond the immediate task at hand. Then, after much of the work was completed in record time, a speed dating component was inserted, followed by a light bagel lunch, enabling the men and women to refuel and socialize even more.
In the end, this unconventional singles event in Freeport proved that love, community, and service are a powerful combination. The warehouse that once stored goods became a space where boots were packed with care, connections were forged, and a shared sense of purpose brought people together. As the duffels made their way to Israeli soldiers, they carried not only essential items but also the warmth and goodwill generated by a community that came together in the spirit of unity and love.
Indeed, couples have begun dating from the event, and some of the afternoon’s volunteers have signed up to assist the Young Israel of Holliswood, which is leading this vital continuing initiative of sending boots to Israel.
We thank all the groups that participated and organized. Appreciation was also directed to our volunteer facilitators and to Adopt-a-Shadchan and the National Council of Young Israel for promoting.
To learn how to volunteer with the Boots For Israel initiative, contact Ayelet Goldberg at 917-923-7644.
