[PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE]

Fifteen hundred men and women crowded into Bais Faiga Hall earlier this week for an extraordinary demonstration of hakaras hatov to Chai Lifeline, the international children’s health support network whose vibrant Lakewood presence is changing the lives of thousands of children and parents in the community.

The event, held Monday evening, June 24, was graced by the presence of the esteemed Roshei Yeshiva and rabbonim, including Rosh HaYeshiva Harav Aryeh Malkiel Kotler, shlita, and Rabbi Shmuel Hirth, Rosh HaYeshiva Yeshivas Nefesh Hachaim. In addition, Dr. Stephan A. Grupp, MD, Director of Translational Research, Center for Childhood Cancer Research at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, was honored for his contributions to children’s care. Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline’s executive vice president, reiterated Chai Lifeline’s mission of seeking individual solutions to each family’s needs.

Chai Lifeline Lakewood’s director, Rabbi Sruli Fried, noted that many in the audience had come as a gesture of hakaras hatov to the organization. “Chai Lifeline is a community organization in the best sense of the term. We are the agency that people turn to in times of illness or crisis. At the same time, the support of the community is what allows us to help so many.”

Rabbi Arye Adest, the organization’s director of community development, agreed. “Tonight’s crowd attests to the organization’s importance in Lakewood life,” he said has he greeted hundreds of guests warmly. “We are truly grateful to be able to bring joy and hope into the lives of so many young cholim and their families.”

YWN PHOTO LINK: Click HERE for photos.

(YWN Desk – NYC)