In these unusual times of staying home to stay safe, it is easy to distance ourselves from our “usual” community responsibilities. Women’s Philanthropy members have been busy making cloth masks in addition to “Zooming” to meetings, exercise classes, shivas (unfortunately), classrooms, social events and even religious services at synagogues. But what about Women’s Philanthropy’s commitments from “BC,” or before Covid-19, times?
Our community had needs before March 2020, and now has needs more than ever. We need to remember the JFS Food Pantry, foster program, social services and counseling. Let’s not forget the seniors at The Towers at Tower Lane, hibernating in their rooms and at greater risk for this virus. Our day schools continue to educate our younger Jewish community members. Our JCC, the heart of our community, continues to provide exercise online for our bodies and minds. The needy in our greater New Haven community are also more stressed than ever before. We are all adjusting to this new normal and are unsure as to what the future brings. Let’s remember to continue to give generously to our Annual Campaign and to support our community at an even higher level than before.
It is not all “doom and gloom.” Thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven’s dedicated professional staff, Women’s Philanthropy has continued to offer programming via the internet. A series of Zoom lectures helped us prepare for an unique Passover experience. Other virtual social opportunities include a Happy Hour at 3 p.m. on Fridays, a monthly book club, and classes on Jewish genetic screening and other topics. We have postponed, but not cancelled, some upcoming events, including A Bend in the Stars author (TBD) and Cool Reads for Hot Days (September 10). Save the date of October 22 for the return of the fabulous, fun Baubles and Bingo (previously Handbag Bingo). The fundraising campaign continues, with $954,606 raised from 404 donors. If you have not made your annual pledge to the campaign, now is the time. Contact Kayla Bisbee (kbisbee@jewishnewhaven.org) or Amy Holtz (aholtz@jewishnewhaven.org), or visit jewishfederationofgreaternewha.givingfuel.com/womens-philanthropy.
May is a beautiful month. We celebrate Mother's Day, which this year may be particularly poignant. Call your mother, FaceTime with her or, even better, send a real card. Make a donation to honor her. We will celebrate Shavuot, commemorating the giving of the Torah, the time when we all assembled together as a community at Mount Sinai. We also celebrate Memorial Day to honor those who have served our country in the military.
Wishing you all continued good health, safety and security, love and community,
The Leadership of Women's Philanthropy
In celebration of the spring harvest and nature, the Women’s Philanthropy shares its Shavuot cocktail recipes. L’chaim!
BLUEBERRY MINT JULEP
6 blueberries
1 sprig of mint
1 oz simple syrup
(recipe at right)
2 oz soda water
2 oz bourbon
Take blueberries and mint, smash to create a puree and set to the side. Combine bourbon, simple syrup and soda water, and pour over ice. Add puree and stir gently.
LEMON GIN SHANDY
1 oz gin
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
(recipe at right)
2 oz IPA beer
01 sprig of mint
Shake gin, lemon juice and simple syrup together with ice. Pour into a glass with a few ice cubes. Slowly add beer, stir gently. Garnish with mint.
SIMPLE SYRUP
(will yield enough for both recipes)
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
In a small saucepan combine sugar and water, and stir. Bring to a simmer, stir until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool. Ready to use.
