Our Update #2

“D’ror”’s Yom Tov Programs inject a Ray of Light in the dark lives of Jewish inmates and their families.

During the uplifting, spirited Yom Tov season, when laughter, cheer and light fill the homes of Jews around the world, there is a small number of Yidden who are engulfed in darkness. The unfortunate Jews who are incarcerated behind bars pass their yom Tov days in a bleak and dreary routine, surrounded by the most degenerate members of society, without even the slightest semblance of Simchas Yom Tov.

Many of these Jews are innocent, honorable members of our community who have been imprisoned for the most minor of offenses, but because of the corruption of our justice system, they were unable to disentangle themselves once they became ensnared in legal difficulties. They are thus forced to sit among common criminals, spending the Yomim tovim under the most unbearable of conditions.

Unfortunately, there are not many resources which are available to aid Jewish prisoners. Those few organizations who do provide assistance serve as a beacon of light to the inmates and their families, infusing an otherwise cheerless yom Tov with light and hope. Whether through a personal visit, sending food packages, letters or reading material, or providing financial assistance to the prisoner and his brokenhearted family, these organizations give the prisoner the message that he is still remembered and considered a valued member of our community.

One such organization is D’ror, which is dedicated to uplifting and supporting Jewish inmates through spiritual encouragement, financial assistance, and legal intervention..   During the festive days throughout Chodesh Tishrei, D’ror has provided immeasurable support and comfort to these downtrodden Yidden, lifting their spirits and imparting a taste of Yom Tov. The tireless askonim of D’ror were in constant touch with the chaplains and other prison officials in order to make the situation as bearable as possible for the inmates. In certain prisons, for example, beautiful new taleisim and machzorim were sent in honor of the Yomim Noraim, as well as mehudardige arba minim sets for Sukkos. In the prisons which allow for outside food to be brought in, delectable Yom Tov seudos were served to the prisoners. Financial assistance was also provided to the innocent family members, alloeing a Yom tov’diger atmosphere to permeate their homes in spite of the difficult circumstances. The inmates and their families were thus assured that K’lal Yisroel has not forgotten about them, and were infused with renewed strength.

The indefatigable askonim at D’ror go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that every single Jewish inmate is as comfortable as possible, fulfilling every request to the best of their ability. D’ror wishes to express their appreciation to the generous contributors who make it possible for them to continue with their noble work. May all of acheinu b’nei yisroel never require the services of D’ror, and may we all merit to reside peacefully in our own homes together with our families.