A contingent of Camp Simcha campers and their counselors from Israel landed in Newark airport in the early morning on Wednesday, July 19th, much too early for the scheduled 2 p.m. arrival time at the start of their 12-day session at the camp. What to do? Of course, send the entire group to the home of Gila & Efraim Gerszberg in Highland Park! The Gerszbergs and friends treated the nearly four dozen campers and counselors to an abundance of snacks and drinks, as well as fun at their backyard pool and bouncy house, topped off with warm greetings from community members

Gila and Efraim Gerszberg, who work together at his firm 20/20 Acquisitions, said: “Chai Lifeline is the most amazing organization. There’s nothing they wouldn’t do to help a child with serious medical issues have a great summer experience. We’re happy to do whatever we can to help them.”

Chai Lifeline Chief Development Officer Elliot Halperin explained that there is no cost whatsoever to the campers for this summer experience; Chai Lifeline covers all the costs of the flight and the camp. He added: “These are kids who could not go to a regular summer camp. We enable them to have fun for two weeks and get away from the worries of their situation.”

Chaviva Sochet, a project manager who is overseeing the capital campaign to build a Chai Lifeline headquarters in Jackson, New Jersey, stated: “Chai Lifeline is so fortunate to have a relationship with the Gerszberg family. These children are having so much fun at their home, in advance of arriving at Camp Simcha. Our hosts are making a difference in these children’s lives, and we are so appreciative.”

Harry Glazer is the Middlesex County Editor of the Jewish Link. He can be reached at [email protected]