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share thef light launching this week

The "Share the Light" campaign, launching on Mitzvah Day and running until Chanukah (and hopefully beyond!) is a chance to spread a little warmth and comfort, both within and beyond our Sinai community.

In normal times, Sinai members would be gearing up to participate in Mitzvah Day, which this year takes place on Sunday 15th November. Obviously, times are far from normal and we are mindful that for many people, it is enough effort simply muddling through the day. So, this year, ,we're aiming for something a bit different....

Food poverty has been featured in the news recently, highlighting the number of families who are struggling, especially during school holidays and as lockdown impacts on employment prospects. I've made a connection with a local charity, Zarach who provide beds, food parcels and financial support to families in Leeds to help them "move from surviving to thriving".

Here's what they've asked for:

  • new single bedding, duvets, sheets and pillow cases for their "Every Head a Bed" campaign
  • new pyjamas, especially for older children 10-11 and 11-12s
  • sweets, chocolates and gifts to go into Xmas hampers for families of all ages

There's also scope to knit teddies and other toys to be included in with new beds - Ruth Nutter has kindly offered to support any knitters who haven't attempted toys before but would like to have a go!

The easiest way for Zarach to receive any donations would be either to drop off at Bridge Community Church, Rider Street. Leeds LS9 7BQ or sent via post at the same address. Please contact me if you are able to help with collection from members or delivery to the central drop off.

And finally, here's a slight twist - we'd also like you to look a little closer to home, and help put a smile on someone's face. Perhaps you always chatted to someone at kiddush but haven't seen them in months? Maybe you shared a security duty with someone but don't bump into each other any more? We're challenging you to perform a "random act of kindness" for someone at Sinai - sending a card, popping a note through the door, dropping off some flowers, a packet of biscuits, a challah, whatever - this isn't about big gestures, just the simple everyday things which help us to feel connected as a community. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you need someone's details.

And to get over our British reserve and embarrassment, please share your"acts of kindness" with me and I'll anonymise them before sharing on the website and Facebook group. I know first-hand how such simple, small acts can mean so much at this challenging time - so, lets reach out to our Sinai community and share the light this winter - who's up for the challenge?!