Traditionally the time between Thanksgiving and Chanukah is an especially wonderful time to think of others. There are many wonderful organizations that help people in need. The children of IBECC have enjoyed giving back in ways that relate to their lives. One of their favorite things to do is to bake cookies. The children walked over to the local firehouse and shared cookies with local firefighters. They were so thankful that they gave the children a tour and even let them climb into the fire truck. They also spoke with everyone about how to be safe with the Chanukah candles lit at home.

Next the children baked cookies for the mail carrier. Mr. Bob brings mail to the school every day no matter the weather and the children wanted to thank him. He loved the cookies so much that he offered to take Chanukah cards that were made for friends and family and mail them.

The yeladim also thanked the man from Jerusalem Pizza in Livingston who delivers the hot lunch. He loved the cookies.

In addition, they collected lots of toys and books and games. Some of them were given to children in the area through OHEL Children’s Home and Family Services and some were even sent to Israel to give to the children who were affected by the recent fires.

Now IBECC children are collecting cans of tuna fish to give to the needy so the children can assemble packages of food on January 8 to be delivered.

In discussions about Chanukah the children learned that the shamash is the candle that lights others. They are learning to be a shamash.