Following their most recent project on December 6th, Free Pre-Winter-Car-Inspections for the entire Queens community which was a success, Chaverim of Queens has taken on another tremendous never seen before, “pioneer” project.

We are unfortunately aware of the excessive amounts of drinking (and in many cases dangerous)  that takes place within our communities on Purim. Anyone you speak to can tell you of someone they know who got behind the wheel while intoxicated on purim. The stories of bachurim who ended purim night in an ER getting pumped, the minor and the major accidents related to drunk driving are kept quiet but DO HAPPEN!

While it is almost impossible to prevent people from partaking in excessive drinking there are other solutions to keep our community as safe and responsible as possible.

The answer is The “Chaverim of Queens Purim program”.

This year, Chaverim of Queens has taken the initiative to keep drunk driving a thing of the past. If you or someone you know is going to be drinking this Purim save this number 917-257-6377. You may be planning to go around to visit some friends but aren’t planning to drink, a designated driver for a group of tzedakah collectors, or participating in a group that will be collecting, the opportunity and pressure to drink is unfortunately enticing. If you or someone you know has been drinking and is planning to get behind the wheel call (or text) 917-257-6377 to have a volunteer from the Chaverim of Queens Purim program come, pick you up and drive you to your destination, within the Queens area. The only information the dispatcher will need is the pickup and dropoff address and a callback number.

Please save this number as you never know who’s life it may save. It may just be your own.

“The…drinking, it gets out of control”…said Chaverim of Queens Coordinator, Avigdor Cyperstein, “this year, Chaverim is going to do something about it”.

The Purim program is actually open for all members of the community to participate as a volunteer, not only to members of Chaverim of Queens.

[CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE] That being said we ask that ANYONE who may be available whether on Purim night or day within the Queens community to be a volunteer driver, EVEN if only available for a few hours, to call 347-684-1155 or e-mail [email protected].

The drinking can get out of control. Chaverim is doing something about it.
Be a part of it, offer to be available.

This is also a great opportunity for those who year round may not have the time to volunteer for chesed organizations such as Chaverim. There is no long term or required commitment by participating as a volunteer this purim. If you or someone you know can or will be  available call or e-mail Chaverim of Queens today. Participate in this great mitzvah and save a life. (All volunteers will be assigned a temporary unit number and will be e-mailed dispatch and response instructions)

“While we hope these services won’t be needed, its nice to know that Chaverim is there” said another volunteer.

Have a Happy, Healthy, and Safe Purim.

(For additional information on this program or general inquiries, comments or suggestions please e-mail [email protected] – DEDICATION opportunities are available as well)

Chaverim of Queens started in January 2008 in memory of Mr. Jack Friedman, a very well liked and known askan.  In just 2 short years they have over 30 volunteers who have responded to thousands of calls.

(YWN Desk – NYC)