I was heartened to read the article from March 31 about the Bayit Association of New Jersey (“The Bayit Association Is Born!”). Any initiative to increase access to kosher housing in our community deserves our support. I wish the Bayit much success in their goal to help people with disabilities. The organization that I serve, the Jewish Association for Developmental Disabilities (J-ADD), also serves this population with great dedication and pride. Two years ago they hired me, an Orthodox rabbi, to increase the level of their Jewish programming. We are able to provide a rich religious life for Jews from a Modern Orthodox background—or any background, for that matter. For instance, I supervise Orthodox staff members who accompany our individuals on Shabbat. Together, we work to make sure that the food is kosher and Shabbat is observed. In addition, I am on my way to the keilim mikvah to tovel the new pots and other kitchen equipment that we purchased for Passover. This includes food processors and blenders for Passover use for individuals on chopped/puree diets. It is my fervent prayer that Jews with disabilities will always find available housing that supports their physical and spiritual needs.
Rabbi Yaakov GrossmanJewish Association for Developmental Disabilities
Paramus