As part of the Temple's commitment to tikkun olam (repairing the world), we are actively working to assist 85 children who are enrolled in the Head Start program in our building through the Thoughtful Thursdays program which provides twice-monthly bags with nutritious foods, personal hygiene items, cleaning products and educational activities. During the school year, the bags are sent home with the students on a Thursday to be returned the following Monday to be refilled.

      In partnership with the Fort Wayne Jewish Federation and Congregation B'nai Jacob, we as a Jewish community are committed to assisting these children and their families, all of whom have incomes below the federal poverty level. The program began in October 2010. We also appreciate the support of the Dr. Harry W. Salon Foundation.

      While you’re shopping, please remember donations of canned tuna or chicken, pasta, toilet paper, canned fruit and vegetables, and individually wrapped healthy snacks always are appreciated. Monetary donations also are welcome.

      Please contact the Temple office for more information at 744-4245 or Thoughtful Thursdays Co-Chair Jamie Berger.

Have you noticed that a common topic at Temple gatherings is food, particularly where to sample delicious ethnic dishes in Fort Wayne? Well, we thought it would be fun to explore some international dining options led by our Social Committee Chair Hod Hefer.

We began with a small group of 16 who sampled Caribbean food at a local restaurant and learned about the owner's roots in the Dominican Republic.

Our next gathering for Temple members on Sunday, May 20 at 3 p.m. will be hosted by Hod and his wife, Heather, at their home featuring Israeli food, including falafel, salads, hummus and snacks. Guests are asked to bring a dish to pass. Please RSVP to the Hefers at Hod_h@yahoo.com. Space is limited to the first 24 Temple members who respond. Children and adults are welcome.

   Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity is partnering with different faith communities and congregations throughout the city for the first “Interfaith Build” in Allen County – uniting through the shared commitment to help provide the basic human right of decent, affordable housing for a family in need.

   The group’s core vision is a world where everyone – regardless of race, religion, or any other difference – has a decent place to live. And, we believe this is a goal all faiths may strive toward.
                    Several faith communities already have joined the Interfaith Build project, and a steering committee is beginning to organize this united effort for fundraising and construction, which is scheduled to commence late summer or early fall of 2012. Donations should be sent to “the Temple” marked “Habitat Build” in the memo. We need to have a firm commitment from our congregation by April 30, so please, do not postpone your contributions. Later on there will be opportunities to volunteer at the site as well.