After a rejuvenating and enthusiastic start to Sukkot followed by Shabbat, Chabad is once again gearing up to assist flood victims. Sunday, numerous volunteers will be sent out into the field to assist with many tasks. Some will be wading in the murky waters of submerged basements while others will help people reorganize their lives, shift furniture around to accommodate items relocated from basements, or helping senior citizens put their lives back into order after needing to relocate.
As the days pass, we continue to hear more and more stories or destruction and personal challenges caused by the flood. Students who live in the foothills have been forced to relocate because there are no open roads. Many are unable to access their belongings. At Chabad at CU we are hosting students until they’re able to find a long-term place to stay. In addition, Chabad of Longmont sustained a tremendous amount of damage. The shul and all classes have relocated to Rabbi and Mrs. Borenstein’s house.
Our phone has been ringing steadily and our inbox has been filled with requests for assistance. We are in desperate need of dehumidifiers. The local stores here are out of them. If you live near or around Denver and are able to give us a dehumidifier, we would deeply appreciate it. In addition, we have had many requests for financial assistance. Many people need money for temporary housing and to begin rebuilding their lives. People should contact one of the rabbis for confidential assistance. Gift cards for Lowes, Home Depot, or local supermarkets can be purchased and emailed to us online.
If you know of apartments or houses available for rent please email us[email protected]. Also, if you can host students who have to relocate for a few weeks please let us know. It will only be helpful if you are in Boulder.
In addition, Achiezer (http://achiezer.org) has reached out to us and will be helping out. In the next few days, we will be posting information on FEMA and mold and restoration help. There will also be links on where to receive emotional support.
As we work to rebuild, we also have come together as a community to celebrate. Sukkot Across America gave a generous donation for a community-wide sukkah event. It’s being supported by numerous Jewish organizations throughout the area. Students will be assisting in the construction of a larger sukkah so that they’re able to host everyone. The event is scheduled for Sunday 6:00pm andclick here for more information.
With gratitude to the Jewish community near and far.