(PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

In the first 48 hours since the end of Yom Tov, Misaskim trucks, vans, and SUVs, manned by volunteers and staff, fanned out across the tri-state area, delivering shiva-related materials to over 86 homes, encompassing more than 434 new aveilim, r’l.

Although it was not totally unexpected, as this post-Yom Tov demand occurs every 6 months, it nevertheless pushed Misaskim over the limit, both in terms of materials and Sifrei Torah, as well as manpower.

For the very first time, Misaskim’s warehouses were bare to the walls.

In addition, there were several unexpected deaths that required Misaskim interaction with the Medical Examiner’s office, to ensure their burials in record-breaking time.

And all of this while “recuperating” from a massive Chol Hamoed outing arranged for over 600 yesomim and their surviving parent, including the building of, and then dismantling and storage of, a massive Succah that was constructed for that event.

Misaskim alleviates tragedy with compassion, coordinates crisis with expertise, and provides a multi-faceted array of services for the bereaved.