Building on the success of previous years, the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at BU, along with the SDT sorority, are once again running a holiday toy drive dubbed “Light up a Life.” New toys of all kinds are being collected and will be distributed to children suffering with cancer through Chai Life Line, a New York City based organization that provides services to cancer stricken children and their families. Community members interested in participating in the drive can do so by dropping toys in the bin located in the Chabad Center lobby (only new toys in original packaging will be accepted) or by making a contribution earmarked toward the project. Checks should be mailed to Chabad Center, 420 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal, NY 13850. Contributions can also be made online.
“Social justice and charity are an integral aspect of the Chabad dynamic on campus,” explained Goldie Ohana, director of programming and development “Each year, in conjunction with Chanukah, Chabad holds a charity drive thus twinning this holiday of light and joy with our need to remain sensitive to those who have less in their own lives. This is a practical way in which our students can make a big difference.”
The campaign will culminate with a bash at Binghamton University in the Old Union hall on Tuesday, December 5, at 6 pm, which will feature a display of all toys collected throughout the drive and holiday treats.
“I am ecstatic and honored to be part of the annual Chabad Toy Drive with Chai Lifeline,” said Meira Papier, who, together with Joe Kornblum and Noah Hochars, is in charge of the toy drive. “At the end of the fund-raiser, we will have a display of all the toys we were able to purchase with the money we raised and I’m looking forward to seeing a mountain of toys! The best part of this fund-raiser is bringing some joy and happiness to the kids who are fighting such a difficult battle, and I’m so glad that I get to be part of this.”
The project is also being co-sponsored by tens of Greek groups, professional fraternities and clubs on campus.