Social Action

The founders of Temple Israel formed this congregation based on a mission that included strengthening the Jewish community and assisting those in need in the community at large. We continue to uphold this mission, by supporting programs and services which adhere to this important mission.

The Robert L. Field Mitzvah Day with Project Ezra - Each year, in conjunction with the Brotherhood of Temple Israel, we invite over a 100 elderly Jewish men and women from the Lower East Side, for an afternoon of food, dancing and entertainment. At least 60 Temple members, including many of our Youth Group participants, donate their Sunday afternoon for this truly rewarding event.

Mitzvah Day was renamed in memory of Robert L. Field, a long-time treasurer of the Brotherhood. Mitzvah Day was very important to Bob and upon his sudden death, his brother Stephen Field endowed the event in his memory.

Homebound Cooking Program - Each Wednesday evening a group of young (and not so young) professionals come together to cook over 100 hot, nourishing meals for homebound individuals. Many clients of the cooking group have been afflicted with the AIDS virus. The program raises its own funds by hosting special events at nightspots throughout the city. Under the direction of Jonathan Schindler, the group has plans to expand its programming to include the collection of winter coats and other vital materials for the needy. For more information, please contact the Temple at 212 249-5000.