(PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

It was the first such occasion, but certainly not the last.

Dozens of Jackson residents of all backgrounds and religions whose families have been stricken by illness,– children, parents and friends – gathered for an evening of holiday spirit cheer and fun at the Misameach Family Center at the Lakewood-Jackson border on Thursday evening.

Misameach is a non-profit organization that brings smiles to children suffering from illness, under the direction of Lakewood resident Lipa Schwartz. The Jackson Night Out was co-sponsored by the Jackson based Chase Ryan Olsen Foundation, which was represented by Maureen Olsen.

The three hour program began when the children, their siblings, and parents were warmly welcomed by Misameach’s volunteers. They enjoyed the colorful center with all its toys, games and food. There was live music throughout the evening, as well as a special juggling show. Every family got a large bag filled with exciting gifts to take home and enjoy.

Surprise guests included several Jackson police officers who came by to join the festivities and cheer up the children. Misameach also donated a substantial amount of toys to the Jackson Police Department’s official holiday toy drive. Jackson Community activist Mordy Burnstein, and Phil Stilton of Shore News Network, who helped publicized the event, participated as well.

The parents and children were mesmerized by the center and this special program. “This is more exciting than anything we’ve experienced until today,” one parent remarked to the organizers.

“There are no borders or barriers when it comes to helping kids and families. Giving back to the communities around me is what I learned in Yeshiva,” says Lipa Schwartz. “While the founders of Misameach are Orthodox Jews from Lakewood, their hearts are there for all kids and families year round.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)