Bay Area Holocaust Survivors Celebrate Rosh Hashanah

Holocaust survivors enjoy Rosh Hashanah luncheon For those blessed to survive the atrocities of the Holocaust, each new year brings special meaning. This was certainly the case as over 60 Tampa Bay area Holocaust survivors joined together to observe Rosh Hashanah with a luncheon at Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg.

The event had particular meaning for many of the survivors as friendships were renewed due to many survivors unable to travel across the bay. The event was sponsored by Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services and Temple Beth-El.

A delicious lunch was served and gift baskets of challah and honey were given to each survivor.

Rabbi Michael Torop facilitated the blessing with a lit candle in memory of those that fell victim to the death camps and unspeakable torture and persecution. Russian translation was provided by Gulf Coast staff members. The highlight of the celebration was the entertainment provided by children from the Pinellas County Jewish Day School and Temple Beth- El Preschool. The children danced and sang several holiday songs and afterwards interacted with the survivors.

The event was made possible thanks to the donations of compassionate and kindhearted individuals as well as funds from the Claims Conference. Without individuals’ generosity, the event would not have been possible. Countless Holocaust survivors expressed their gratitude for providing the luncheon as many find it increasingly difficult to socialize. Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services provides case management services, support groups, and emergency funds to Holocaust survivors throughout the Tampa Bay area and assists survivors throughout North, Central, and West Florida with restitution.

If you would like to help Holocaust survivors continue to enjoy quality of life, please call 727-479-1800 or email jlallanilla@gcjfs.org.