Sixth-grader Jaime Distenfeld put her artistic skills to the test in order to create a bat mitzvah project that would help bring friends and family together this Rosh Hashanah and for many other happy occasions.
Distenfeld hand-drew seven different greeting cards, two of which are special for Rosh Hashanah, and uploaded the design to Shutterfly, a website where people can create stationery and other personalized gifts. All sale proceeds go to Chai Lifeline, a chesed organization that helps families with children who are battling physical illness.
The project is called Kards 4 Kids (the name was based off of the charity for children, Kars 4 Kids) and Distenfeld is excited to have created this chesed opportunity.
“I’m excited about making the cards because I love art,” Distenfeld said. “It’s nice that I was able to do something I like and raise money at the same time.”
In addition to the Rosh Hashanah-themed cards, Distenfeld created cards for anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, thank-you notes and get-well-soon wishes.
For those interested in purchasing, the cards come in packs of five, and each pack is worth $18. Distenfeld has already sold 25 packs, and her goal is to sell 100 packs in order to raise $1,800, which will be enough to fulfill a wish for a child at Chai Lifeline.
The cards are worth sending to friends and family and to businesses that might need to send clients a holiday greeting or acknowledge a special occasion.
Distenfeld has already sold 400 cards to a company in Florida, and another vendor there has agreed to sell some as well. She has also sold locally to friends and family. They can also be purchased at Carly’z Craze in Teaneck.
Distenfeld’s mom emphasized the convenience of having cards at hand in the midst of the hurriedness that often accompanies many smachot.
“The best thing to have is a stash of cards you can order for many different occasions,” Distenfeld’s mom said. “This way you don’t have to run out at the last minute.”
If you have any questions or if you are interested in ordering, please contact the Distenfelds at [email protected].
By Elizabeth Zakaim
