Torah Academy Holds Charity Car Wash

The following news release was submitted by : 

Amid the threat of rain, over 60 Torah Academy of Bergen County (TABC) students gathered throughout the day on Sunday, April 1st, to raise money for Tomchei Shabbos, a kosher food pantry for families in the Bergen County area unable to afford regular Shabbat and holiday meals. This annual event, run at TABC, has raised money for several organizations such as Tomchei Shabbos and Project Ezra, which are dedicated to helping those in need. Upon arrival at TABC, students wash the cars, and the driver then pulls up to have his car vacuum cleaned, removing all the chametz or leavened products including cereal, candy and more, for Passover. Many students commented that, "the activity is fun, and we are doing a great mitzvah [good deed]."  Rabbi Darren Blackstein, a TABC teacher who coordinates this event and many other TABC charity efforts throughout the year, commented that, "watching the students work tirelessly for so many hours was inspiring. I learned that TABC students don't disappoint."

Blackstein added that, "It was especially heart-warming to see such a great response from the community. I can't thank the greater community enough for their patience as they waited on line, and for their generosity as many made out checks for well above the suggested contribution." Many alumni come back at this time of year just to see their alma mater, have their car cleaned for Passover, and give charity. In particular, Charles Wollman, a 2009 graduate, came back to help manage and work throughout the day. Rabbi Blackstein reports that, "thanks to the dedication of the students and the sensitivity of the community, we had our most successful car cleaning event ever, raising well over $3,000 for Tomchei Shabbos."

Follow Patch on Facebook and Twitter

To submit community news, e-mail teaneck@patch.com or noah@patch.com