There was a feeling of warmth and joy at Commonpoint’s Central Queens location in Forest Hills on Thursday, March 5, as Holocaust survivors from across the community gathered for a special Purim luncheon hosted by the organization’s Resilience Program and proudly co-sponsored by UJA-Federation of New York.
The event welcomed 69 guests, including approximately 45 first-generation Holocaust survivors. Many attended with home health aides or family members, and transportation was arranged for the majority of participants to ensure that everyone who wished to attend could comfortably take part.
Tables decorated for Purim filled the room as survivors greeted friends and settled in for the afternoon. A delicious kosher luncheon was served while music played in the background. Before long, the music inspired several guests to rise from their seats and dance together.
As the Community Outreach Coordinator for Queens Shmira, I had the privilege of attending the program personally to witness the beauty of the work being done through the Resilience Program.
Adding a particularly uplifting dimension to the afternoon were children from the Early Childhood program at the Y, who joined the festivities as well. Their presence brought the spirit of Purim from a youthful perspective, filling the room with energy and excitement. Watching the children sing and interact with the survivors created a moving scene: one generation that endured so much now witnessing another generation growing and celebrating Jewish life.
Rabbi Eli Blokh, Director of Chabad of Rego Park, addressed the gathering with a heartfelt multilingual message.
“I’m running out of languages – and I think maybe everyone’s attention as well,” Rabbi Blokh joked. “Purim may be behind us, but the joy is still with us. And in just a few weeks, we’ll be celebrating Pesach.”
Referencing the message recited during the Pesach Seder, Rabbi Blokh continued, “On Pesach, we say, ‘V’hi she’amdah la’avoseinu’ – that Hashem promised and guaranteed that the Jewish people will endure. In every generation, there are those who rise against us, but am Yisrael chai. We always make it through.”
Volunteers from the Invisible Hands program assisted throughout the event, helping welcome guests, serve food, and ensure the program ran smoothly from start to finish.
Beyond the music, food, and program, what stood out most was the sense of connection throughout the room. Survivors spent time speaking with friends, sharing memories, and enjoying the opportunity simply to be together.
Gatherings like this hold deep significance, particularly as many survivors grow older and may experience increasing isolation. Creating spaces where they feel honored, included, and surrounded by community offers not only celebration but also companionship and dignity.
Those interested in learning more about the Resilience Program and services offered to Holocaust survivors can contact Aron Katayev, Coordinator of the Initiative for Holocaust Survivors & Older Adults, at 718-225-6750 (ext. 211) or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
By Shabsie Saphirstein
